FLORIDA’S MOST TRUSTED PEDIATRICIANS ARE NOW OPEN IN TAMPA BAY! Three Convenient Locations Open Nights & Weekends
Trinity Trinity Village Center 10710 State Rd. 54, Suite 108 Trinity, FL 33655 Phone: 727-376-4040 Monday—Thursday: 8 am to 8:30pm Friday: 8am to 5pm Saturday: 8am to 12pm Sunday: 9am to 12pm
Palm Harbor Oaklake Medical Centre 2595 Tampa Rd., Suite W Palm Harbor, FL 34684 Phone:727-785-3092 Monday—Friday: 8am to 5pm Saturday: 8am to 12pm
Riverview/Winthrop Winthrop Town Center 11260 Sullivan Street Riverview, FL 33578 Phone: 813-689-7571 Monday—Thursday: 8 am to 8:30pm Friday: 8am to 5pm Saturday: 8am to 12pm Sunday: 9am to 12pm
CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY! We’re Here When You Need Us www.patampabay.com
At St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, We See Things from a Kid’s Point of View
Children are special and should be treated that way. At St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, your child will be taken care of by doctors and nurses who specialize in treating children, in surroundings designed for kids. From the tiniest baby to the high school quarterback, we care exclusively for kids.
3001 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. | Tampa
Find the right doctor for your child: (888) 499-8906
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Contents
14
18
features
26
40
26|mommy brain
10|creative birthday
Moms have super-powers
An art themed party
28|healthy grin
14|get organized
Oral health in children
Little changes that make a big difference
30|stop abuse
18|family campout
Taking responsibility for kids
Storytelling and s’mores under the stars
34|mom inspiration
22|nutritional guidance
Moms who go above and beyond
Teaching your kids to eat right
40|Extraordinary woman Dr. Erin Cockrell
every month 36|education
Photograph by Jeanine McLeod of Cloud 9 Studios For this month’s cover photo, we visited the Bob Sierra Family YMCA in Carrollwood.
06|Letter From The Editor 10|summer camp
on the cover
Cover Kid Winner Alex Cauler
Pg. 44
enjoyed the sand volleyball
Wow mom with these gifts!
courts and baseball fields and
38|what's happening 40|health and wellness 48|south Hillsborough News
had some fun in the sun at the YMCA’s water park! He got to check out the adventurous water
slide
50|north Hillsborough News
visited
the
52|south pinellas News
gymnastics
54|north pinellas News
and
he
also
state-of-the-art center--
all
of
which will be open all summer long.
56|pasco News To
58|Around Town 60|Calendar of Events 64|directory
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
learn
more
Sierra
Family YMCA,
TampaYMCA.org.
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
about
YMCA camps and the Bob visit
Founder & Editorial Director
Angela L. Ardolino Editorial Assistant
Krista Byrd Associate Editor
Anu Panchal Contributing Writers
Gayla Grace Lisa Thompson Jill Heckman, MD Lindsay Perez Heather Lee Leap Peggy Caruso Ashley Talmadge Dr. Keith Kantor Matthew McWilliams
Me and Kelley Parris of the Children’s Board of Hillsbourough County at the Education is Key Breakfast at the Glazer Children’s Museum.
thank you moms!
Calendar & Neighborhood Stories
Chris Kuhn Director of Sales & events
David E. Estevez Events Director
Nakia Kelley account executive
First things first. Make sure you take a moment and mark your calendar for May 10 – Mother’s Day! Moms are the glue that hold families together, which is why this month, we’re featuring four local moms who, despite obstacles and hardships, have made the tight-rope-walking-while-jugglingfireballs-with-plates-on-your-head act of motherhood look as effortless as a stroll in the park. Read more about these moms on page 34. And speaking of moms, you may not have started looking for that perfect gift. Relax, we’ve compiled some great options for mother on page 44 to consider. As moms, you probably already know that you have superpowers. Your ability to multitask defies all logic and modern science. And yet, you manage to be mom day in and day out. So how is this possible? On page 26, we discuss how a woman’s brain chemically changes when she has kids, allowing her to take on multiple projects, find resources and plan ahead for her children.
Ralf Gonzalez public relations
Elisa Santana Katherine Lavacca Contributing photographers
Nicole Geller Jeanine McLeod Amy Pezzicara
The Florida rain and heat have started to settle in as summer creeps closer and closer. Not to worry; we’ll help you get ready for summer with the continuation of our monthly Summer Camp Guide on page 10. Summer gives your family the opportunity to spend more time together and experience new things. Many of you will be heading outdoors over the next few months to experience everything our great state and nation have to offer. While out, you may want to consider pitching a tent and camping instead of booking that hotel. On page 18, we dive into all the things you should take into account before reserving your space at the local campground.
Social Moms
Christina Fontana Lisa-Marie Leihy Rachel Long Amber Middelfart Peggy Stines-Munnings Ana Peralta Anna Tataris Laurie Winkles
With all the down time your kids have in the coming weeks and months, you may want to get your life organized so you can make more time for family. On page 14, we’ve gathered some tips and tricks to help you get that mental clutter under control. Continuing its mission to provide children with everything they need to succeed, the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County’s executive director, Kelley Parris, spoke to us about the ongoing epidemic of child abuse in our nation and county. On page 30, she offers some insight into spotting potential signs of abuse as well as removing the stigma of talking about and even reporting possible cases. Happy Memorial Day!
Tampa Bay parenting Magazine
P.0. Box 13365 Tampa, Florida 33681 Phone: 813-949-4400 Fax: 813-315-6688 info@tbparenting.com editor@tbparenting.com Become A Fan at:
Facebook.com/ tampabayparentingmagazine
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Tampa Bay Parenting is published twelve times per year and distributed throughout the Tampa Bay community. Tampa Bay Parenting is not responsible for any errors, inaccuracies, omissions or incorrect information (or the consequences related thereto) contained within the magazine or online; readers should not rely on any information contained in the magazine and they should always consult with an appropriate professional for guidance. Tampa Bay Parenting accepts no responsibility for the consequences of error or for any loss or damage suffered by users of any of the information or materials provided by Tampa Bay Parenting. Some content published by Tampa Bay Parenting is sponsored or paid for advertising content, and some individuals quoted or cited in articles have paid for advertising or sponsorships; this content or opinions do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Tampa Bay Parenting.
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
Mental Health Month A FREE COMMUNITY EVENT
Every Thursday in the month of May we will be offering free anxiety and depression screenings and consultations from mental health professionals.
MAY 7 14 21 28 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. TH
TH
ST
TH
(No appointments are necessary.)
The event will be held in the IOP room at Tampa Community Hospital
6001 Webb Road • Tampa, FL 33615 Please call if you have any questions 1-813-329-6028. TampaCommunityHospital.com
new name. new day.
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It’s an extraordinary journey back to ordinary. Every minute of every day, we give our all so kids like Jude can go from a fragile 1-pound, 8-ounce baby, born four months early, to a typical 2-year-old full of giggles and boundless energy. It’s a promise that has made us Tampa Bay’s only hospital ranked by U.S. News & World Report in pediatric specialties.
See stories like Jude’s at allkids.org/journeys
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Creative birthday An art-themed party for your child By Heather Lee Leap
i
t’s that time of the year again: Your little one’s birthday is a couple of weeks away and you’re frantically googling every tea party cottage and bowling alley in town for an opening. However, creating a lifetime memory for your child and her friends doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Look no further than your inner Van Gogh to plan the perfect art-themed birthday party at home.
An art-themed party at home requires creativity and flexibility, but no significant artistic ability. These parties are ideal for children ages 4 to 9, but it’s a good idea to limit the guest list to six or fewer children. Art parties don’t need to be chaotic either. Just invite a few of the parents to stay or hire a neighborhood teen to offer support and encouragement for these open-ended party activities.
Art Party Table. Jump right into your art theme by inviting guests to decorate the table as they arrive. Spread your table with white paper and supply guests with crayons. If you expect a tame group, leave crayons loose for kids to roll them to one another. For a more rambunctious crowd, sort crayons into baskets or cups so that each child has a wide range of colors to choose from without haggling for the cerulean blue or resorting to tossing them to one another. Art Party Activity. Say “no more” to the party craft that gets thrown in the trash as soon as the guests leave. Instead, have each child decorate a tote bag that they can use over and over again. At your local craft supply store, purchase one canvas tote bag for the birthday child and each guest. While you’re there, buy fabric markers and squeeze bottles of fabric paint in a variety of colors. Save thin cardboard, such as cereal boxes, in the weeks leading up to the party. Before guests arrive, cut cardboard to an appropriate size and insert one piece into each bag to prevent bleed-through of paint. Spread a drop cloth or tarp on the floor to use as a work surface. Place the markers, paints and tote bags on the tarp. Children can sit around the perimeter with materials in the center to minimize damage from spills. Avoid directing how children use the materials. Each child’s scribble art creation will be unique. Do not expect young children to make precise letters or shapes. Adults can write children’s names and ages on the bags for them with the fabric markers or paint. Keep a bucket of warm soapy water and a washcloth beside the work station to quickly clean up spills and paint-covered hands.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
With over 100 unique camps and classes, Berkeley Summer Programs has something for everyone, and we can cater to a child’s diverse interests or singular passion. We offer full-day sessions in a variety of areas such as sports, academics, and fine arts, or you can opt for our one, two, and three-hour selections. To learn more and to register today, log on to berkeleyprep.org/summer.
GIVE YOUR CHILD A SUMMER TO REMEMBER!
REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! w w w. b e r k e l e y p r e p . o r g / s u m m e r 8 13 . 8 8 5 . 16 73
Small children may need a reminder not to turn their bags over while they are wet. Instruct them to decorate only one side. When finished, put the bags in a safe place to dry. Leaving the cardboard inside allows the bags to stay flat for transport if they are still wet at the end of the party.
Art Party Cake. A half-sheet sized cake will leave you an excess of leftovers, but offers a large enough canvas for a small group of eager decorators. Ice the cake simply with white frosting and forgo the usual “happy birthday” message. Placing the cake on a coffee table or piano bench allows everyone to participate at once. Have kids wash hands thoroughly, then they can stand or kneel at the bench to work. Offer a limited color selection of squeezable frosting and sprinkles. This cuts down on squabbles over colors and results in a less chaotic-looking cake. Art Party Goody-Bags.
A keepsake tote bag may be enough swag, but in some circles, an elaborate goody bag has become the norm. Prior to the party, stock up on consumable art supplies that can be repackaged for each child. Glitter glue, glue Let me Paint a Selfie Art Birthday Pary by Hostess with the Mostess, sticks, colored pencils and fun erasers often come in packages https://ink.hwtm.com. of five or eight. Repackage these into your goody bags, with just one or two of each item for each child rather than a whole pack of each. Surplus supplies can be added to your own stock of craft supplies for future use. Party guests and your child will end the day with a unique tote bag, a memorable cake-decorating experience and a few art supplies of their own. An extra bonus for the birthday child is an opportunity to decorate the other side of the bag at a later date. You will have an activity for the next rainy day, a reminder to use up the last of your markers and paints and the satisfaction of knowing you pulled off a creative and engaging party.
Heather Lee Leap is a freelance writer and mom who held an art party for each of her daughters when they turned 4. Cake decorating has become a party tradition in her home.
IGNITE YOUR CHILD’S PASSION! Code apps, design video games, build websites, produce movies, and more
HELD AT 100+ CAMPUSES NATIONWIDE
USF • U Miami • Rollins College • UNF Stanford • Princeton • Yale and more iD Tech Camps Co-Ed, Ages 7-17
Alexa Café All-Girls, Ages 10-15
iD Game Design & Development Academy Co-Ed, Pre-College, Ages 13-18
iD Programming Academy Co-Ed, Pre-College, Ages 13-18
Tech Rocket Year-Round Online Learning Kids and Teens
www.iDTech.com/FL • 1-888-709-8324
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
get organized Little changes that can make a big differece By Peggy Caruso
H
ow many of us complain every week that we spend more time at our office than at home? In today’s fast paced, competitive society, it’s become harder to leave work earlier and spend time with family. Finding that perfect balance between career and family obligations is challenging, but with a few organizational changes to our life, we can move in the right direction. • Start your day right, with a calm mind and positive energy flow. If you have to get out of bed earlier to give yourself time for this, it is worth it. Meditation is a great way to begin the day with positivity and gratitude. There is no right or wrong way to meditate: You can listen to music or just meditate in total silence. • Once you have finished meditating, check your emails. This will give you a head start on your workday, especially if you can get to it before your children are up. • Try and get to your office early, before coworkers arrive and bring with them frequent interruptions. Minimize interruptions throughout the day by forwarding calls to a message center when you are busy or by putting up a ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on your door until you have completed your project. • Establish priorities, set boundaries and learn to say ‘no’ to colleagues. Although most people realize that family is the most important thing, we tend to put our professions first because family is the most understanding and accommodating. We continually strive to meet our professional goals, but we shouldn’t forget about the importance of personal and family goals either. Setting family goals will aid in time management. Be sensitive to your spouse’s feelings, especially messages of disappointment. Include your family in as many areas as you can. Put together an exercise program that includes everyone and make dinner your key communication time. Do not allow electronics at the table, listen to your spouse and children when they talk, but most importantly, contribute to the conversation. • When you are setting goals, be sure to create time for yourself. You are no good to family or colleagues if you can’t find time to relax, relieve tension and minimize stress. When setting up your appointments, don’t forget the most important person: yourself. We tend to keep work appointments, so make your personal ones just as important. You should actually plan your personal time on the calendar before your work ones. This habit will have an impact on your mind as a reminder that family comes first. Implementing these few organizational changes will allow you to effectively manage your time and stress. Your day will be structured in a calm and positive way, you will accomplish your tasks in a more timely fashion and you will therefore have more time to spend with your family.
Peggy Caruso is a certified executive and personal development coach. An NLP master practitioner and advanced hypnotherapist, she is also the author of three books, Revolutionize Your Life, Revolutionize Your Child’s Life (Morgan James Publishing, 2014), and Revolutionize Your Corporate Life.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
Where everyone has a great time! 7 Weeks of Options: June 15 - July 31, 2015 60+ full- and half- day camps Ages PreK3-high school Before- and after-care
Located on Corbett Prep's beautiful campus in North Tampa! Outdoor
Field Trips
S.T.E.M.
Performing & Visual Arts
Academic
World Languages
Athletics
And So Much More!
Sign up today!
(813) 961-3087 CampIDS@corbettprep.com 12015 Orange Grove Drive, Tampa, FL www.corbettprep.com
SUMMER CLASSES & CAMPS
PATEL CONSERVATORY
@
STRAZ CENTER
2015
BE PART OF THE SHOW! Auditions SAT • MAY 9 • 2-5PM THU • MAY 28 • 6-8PM
&
SHOWSTOPPERS Romeo
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DANCE•THEATER•MUSIC
patelconservatory.org OPPERS SHOWST813.222.1002
REGISTER TODAY! --
TBP_CampAd_HalfPG_May.pdf 1 4/13/2015 2:23:15 PM
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S P M A C ZOO
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So much more than you think!
Why just go to summer camp when you can go to Zoo Camp?
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Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo offers exciting and enriching summer camps for kids of all ages. Our expert staff provides the most fun and safe environment for animal adventures with friends that your children will always remember. • Camps for students grades K-8 • Named #1 Zoo in U.S.A. for kids • More than 1,000 animals • Water-play areas & rides • Make new friends • Standards-based programs
S OO PAS Z L A U ANN RS SAVE MEMBE ORE EVEN M AMPS! C O O Z ON
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Popular Camps Include: Shutterbugs, Animal Trainer, Animal Actors, Hide and Seek & More!
Zoo Camps Sponsored by:
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813-935-8552 ext. 268 • LowryParkZoo.org/Camps
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
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Family campout Storytelling and s’mores under the stars By Ashley Talmadge
t
here’s no better way to experience all of nature’s offerings than by camping. A leisurely hike, jumping fish, s’mores around the campfire—all add up to hours of stressfree quality time with the ones you love most. And even the plushest camping accommodations are inexpensive compared to other lodging. The Outdoor Foundation reports that one-fifth of American households with children go camping, and 70 percent of camping trips are made with friends. So when in-town temperatures soar this summer, pack up your family and head to the mountains or shore for a breath of fresh air. Here are tips to ensure a great experience: Research and reserve. Get recommendations from friends and access online information about campgrounds, including site maps and fees. During the summer months, it’s best to reserve your site in advance when possible. National, state and county parks often provide excellent camping facilities at moderate cost. Privately-owned campgrounds are more expensive, but may come with amenities such as laundry facilities and a pool. Narrow your search by clicking on desired features, such as pet-friendliness or the presence of showers, flush toilets, hiking trails, beach access or playgrounds. (See below for websites.) Make a list and check it twice. Who wants to drive 20 miles for a box of Band-Aids? A printout of must-haves can help you avoid leaving necessities at home. A comprehensive checklist can be found at Coleman (www.coleman.com/checklists/) or Love the Outdoors (www.lovetheoutdoors.com/). Pare and adapt according to your family’s needs. Get your gear. If you already have the essentials, be sure everything is in good working condition. You don’t want to discover the hole in the tent during a downpour. Equipment can be expensive and there are many options. If you’re new to camping (or trying it for the first time with children) you may want to borrow a tent and other items from a friend. Rentals are also available. Take a look at Lower Gear (www.lowergear.com) for prices. Make a dry run. Practice using any unfamiliar piece of equipment before you hit the road. Set up the tent, install the car top carrier, and light the stove. Not only will you avoid fumbling in bad weather, you’ll give the kids a preview of the
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
camping experience. Maybe you’ll want to try a night or two of camping in the backyard before heading to the campground. Plan meals. You can chop veggies ahead of time, and use pre-cooked frozen foods as ice blocks in your cooler. If you’re using a camp stove, foods that can be cooked with hot water (pasta, instant oatmeal) are quick and easy. And never underestimate the value of grabbing a meal at the local pizzeria or burger joint if you’re camping near a town. Check the weather. If you’re camping at high elevations or on the coast, remember that evenings and early mornings may be chilly. You may also need to prepare for rainy or windy conditions. Review rules. When you arrive at the campsite, scope it out before you set up equipment. Call a quick family meeting and point out site boundaries, bathrooms, trash containers and water. Remind the kids to respect neighboring sites, clean up after themselves and refrain from feeding wildlife. Make sure everyone is aware of potential dangers such as creeks, cliffs and rash-producing plants. Relax and unwind. After you’ve set up camp, it’s time to let the great outdoors work its magic. Hike and fish. Organize a scavenger hunt. Prop your feet up by the campfire. Eat s’mores. Tell ghost stories after the sun goes down. Drink an adult beverage. Play a card game with the kids by the lantern’s glow. Find constellations you can’t see in the city. It’s all good. Dealing with “tech deficit.” Younger than “tween-age” kids will have no problem occupying themselves with nature’s bounty: mud, sticks, rocks, water. Amid their fortbuilding and cricket-chasing, they’ll scarcely notice the lack of screens and devices. If you’re at a state park, check out the Junior Rangers Program. Kids will love the ranger-led activities and guided walks where they can learn about the local flora and fauna. For older kids and parents, technology has its benefits. Fill your phone with nature-related apps, and there will be no need to lug ten field guides and a journal on your next hike. Another tech bonus: You can easily log your discoveries. Check out www.gizmodo.com for a review of apps related to animals, plants, rocks, constellations, citizen science and hiking trails. Find the Perfect Campground • • • • •
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
National parks (www.nps.gov/findapark) and U.S forest land (www.forestcamping. com). Reservations for either at www.recreation.gov, $10-$20+/night. State parks at www.americasstateparks.org. Reservations at www.reserveamerica. com. Fees vary by state, $10-$50/night. Privately-owned, amenity-loaded campgrounds at www.campgrounds.com, $30+/ night. Primitive sites with the Bureau of Land Management (www.blm.gov/). Low- or nofee, but often without drinking water. Free campsites (www.freecampsites.net/). Check details—some are no more than casino parking lots!
FRIENDSHIP | ACCOMPLISHMENT | BELONGING
15 0 2 , 1 2 t s gu mmer! u s R June 8-Au E P U for a S
ROES E H R E P U S Recruiting
Full Day Camps starting at $125/week | Space is limited At our YMCA Summer Camps, kids participate in super fun and educational activities that help them master skills, build friendships, and feel like they belong so they feel safe. • Select from Full Day Camps and a wide variety of Specialty Half Day Camps that are sure to activate super powers. • Sign up for one week, one month, or the whole summer.
Visit www.tampaymca.org for detailed information. Camp schedule: 9am-4pm Extended care: 7am-9am and 4pm-6pm at no additional cost
Camps your kids will love:
• Science • Sports • Art • Crafts • Cheer • Dance • And so much MORE! Enroll your kid today! campad515
GET YOUR $25 SUPER BONUS provided upon signing up for a YMCA membership. Bonus to be used towards YMCA programs. To redeem this offer present this ad at your local Y. Offer valid through May 25.
TAMPA METROPOLITAN AREA YMCA | tampaymca.org |
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Getting paint on absolutely
EVERYTHING?
Summer Camps
We call that artistic expression.
Day Camps | PreK-8th | June-July STEM & Engineering, Little Captains (fun and education themed), Early Elementary Education, Sports & Recreation
Boarding Camp | 8th-12th | July-August Summer@Farragut is a college-prep boarding experience which allows students from all over the world to earn one high school credit in math, biology, or history. It also offers electives like scuba, aviation, and engineering.
Registration is Open! www.farragut.org/summer | 727-384-5500 ext 230 501 Park St. N., St. Petersburg, Florida
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
(813) 922-8167 • CarrollwoodCenter.org
Theatre
Athletics
Robotics
Academics
Recreation
More…
Summer at Shorecrest serves students age 3 through rising 12th graders. Open to the public.
Visit www.shorecrest.org/summer to learn more.
FEATURING
FROM PRESCHOOL TO HIGH SCHOOL
BECOME A
MOSI MEMBER &
SAVE 25% ON CAMP FEES!
e n u J
21 . g u 8-A
What do launching pumpkins, designing video games, explosions, slime and fashion design all have in common? They are just part of the MOSI Summer Science Camp fun waiting for you.
Preschool to High School • Half-Day Camps • All-Day Camps • Technology Camps Travel Camps • Residential Camps • S.T.E.A.M. Career Camps • Certified Teachers Multi-week and multi-child discounts and scholarships available. Camp hours: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Extended hours: 7 – 9 a.m. and 4 – 6:30 p.m.
For more information on camps and programs, call 813-987-6000 or visit MOSI.ORG * Advance registration and fees required for these programs. Some restrictions apply.
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nutritional guidance Teaching your kids to eat right By Dr. Keith Kantor
t
eaching children about healthy nutrition is not hard; it simply takes time. However, with the busy schedules most families juggle today, time is the scarcest commodity. When it comes down to providing our families with healthy meals, we tend to miss the big picture. With rising childhood obesity rates and little nutritional education in schools, the onus is on parents to teach their children about the benefits of proper nutrition. Daily meals eaten together are the perfect training ground to teach your child how to eat well and make healthy choices. As with anything, leading by example is the most powerful way to influence your child. Involve your children with daily food choices. Take your children with you to grocery shop and involve them with meal preparation. Both are great steps toward improving their knowledge of nutrition. Teach the difference between real food and processed foods. It doesn’t take a nutritionist to know that, generally speaking, the less processed a food is, the better it is for you. Teach your children how to read labels and recognize additives, preservatives and colorings that have been linked to adverse health effects. Try a new fruit or vegetable every week and look up recipes together on how to prepare the new produce. Stress the importance of drinking water. Water should be the first choice for hydration. Give your child a goal of half their body weight in ounces of plain water per day to consume. Juice and other sugar-dense (or even noncalorie artificially sweetened) beverages should be a rare treat. If you have a juice or soda addict, then start by adding fresh fruit to water in a pitcher and let it sit for a natural but subtle sweetness. If they insist on juice, limit it to one per day and opt for an all-natural no-sugar sweetener like a stevia-based lemonade.
carbohydrate such as rice or potatoes. Cook two different vegetables at mealtime so they have a variety with which to fill up half of their plate. Use vegetables (mashed cauliflower, zucchini noodles) instead of starches when possible. Many tools and websites help track portions and teach benefits of healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, nuts, seeds and proteins (see sidebar). All members of the family should eat breakfast daily. NEVER send your child off to school without brain food: This is a recipe for poor mental focus and low energy. Try to incorporate fats into breakfast. A sugary bowl of cereal or plate of pancakes is just as bad as no food at all because a surge of glucose followed by a plummeting in glucose levels often results in subsequent sleepiness. Healthy breakfast options rich in protein and healthy fats include Greek yogurt, eggs, almond butter toast, steel cut oats with chopped nuts, a protein shake, cold cuts and fruit. Pack your children’s lunch—with their help. School lunch programs have tried to adopt more healthy choices, but budgets don’t always allow for healthy flavor enhancement. Therefore, kids are either faced with an unhealthy school lunch or a really small bland lunch that meets nutrition guidelines. A lunch from home can provide the best of both worlds, a healthy lunch without the processed choices. A high fiber sandwich or wrap loaded with low sodium cold cuts and vegetables with fresh fruit and some trail mix is a satisfying lunch that will keep children’s
Adopt the plate method. Teach children what their plate should look like at each meal. Every time they eat, they should have high-quality protein, a fruit or vegetable, and an unprocessed
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• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
energy up during and after school. Avoid being a “food cop.” Don’t force or nag your kids to eat foods they don’t like. Keep healthy choices around the majority of the time, and if a treat slips in here or there, that is OK too. Learning healthy habits should be fun for the whole family and, of course, result in a long-term lifestyle change. If your child feels deprived, he will sneak food and gorge when you are not looking. Focus on what children need rather then what they cannot have. Aim to have at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day and protein and healthy fats at each meal. Great choices include hummus, guacamole, nuts, seeds, heart-healthy oils, and the most complex and unrefined grains and carbohydrates possible, such as quinoa, steel cut oats, brown rice, sweet potatoes and sprouted breads. If your children are properly nourished, they will not crave junk foods due to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Slowly clean out your pantry and replace the old not-so-healthy items with healthier versions. Making small changes slowly will result in long-term results. No one wants to feel like his or her diet is getting overhauled. Dr. Keith Kantor is a nutritionist, a 27-year advocate of natural food and healthy living, and the CEO of Service Foods Inc. He is also the author of the Green Box League of Nutritious Justice, which includes exercises, fun superhero educational stories, and kid friendly recipes that the entire family will love.
©2015 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
AT I O R T S I G E EE R
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ILLS! K S G N I FR JULY 8 H & READ n is free.* T A M ’S JUNE 1 R CHILD y, and registrationly when you enrollils. U O Y S D da rs o deta BUIL Enroll to articipating Kumon Ceecnetenter for promotional KUMON at p ct th lid nta *Offer va /15 - 7/8/15. Co /1 6 n e e betw
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LUTZ-LAKE CROSSING 813-909-9122
TAMPA-PALMA CEIA 813-831-9495
BRADENTON-UNIVERSITY PARK** 941-351-5555
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• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
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mommy brain Research shows that moms have super powers By Matthew McWilliams
r
aising children can give a woman “mommy brain,” but that doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Research at Longwood University in Farmville, Virginia is showing what most mothers probably already know: Moms are smarter than non-moms. New mothers tend to be naturally protective of their fragile children and feel a deep desire to provide food for them. But understanding more subtle changes—moms’ abilities to plan better, solve problems more efficiently and better cope with stress and anxiety—takes brain scientists. Dr. Adam Franssen, a neurobiologist at Longwood University, is working with other scientists at the University of Richmond, Virginia and Randolph-Macon College in Ashland, Virginia to tease out what happens inside mothers’ brains to give them all these superpowers. “The old stereotype is that mothers lose brainpower when they have children,” Franssen says. “That’s just not true. You may still have to watch cartoons instead of something intellectually stimulating, but your brain has been enhanced in other fundamental ways.” Some changes in new mothers are apparent. “It is almost unsurprising that pregnancy and childbirth lead to dramatic behavioral and neurologic changes in mothers,” Franssen says. “Women are converted from carefree individuals to loving mothers with threatsensitivity levels that put Homeland Security to shame.” Franssen and his students are probing for neurological evidence of prospective memory—the ability to plan or do a task in
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the future. Behavioral studies have shown that mother rats are much better at using this form of future thinking than males. The question is, what goes on in the brain to give females the advantage? “Prospective memory is a key feature in raising and caring for the young,” Franssen says. “It allows a mother to anticipate future conditions and plan accordingly. All mothers do this, whether it’s packing a sweater for her son because she knows it’s going to be cold outside or going to the store to buy groceries for dinner the next night so her kids will be fed. Of course, fathers engage in these activities, too, but mothers’ brains have enhanced capabilities.” In Franssen’s recent study, rodent mothers that knew there would be little food and water later would gather and store extra for their pups to ensure they would be well tended. The rat mothers would also risk danger— something human parents also do—to provide for their young. Franssen says this is evidence they understand and are planning for future situations. Previously, prospective memory was thought to be a trait exhibited only by humans and other advanced primates. In rodents, pregnancy seems to unlock the ability to anticipate future events and conditions that gives mothers the edge they need to protect their children from harm. “This study is unique in that it shows ratspreviously thought to be incapable of prospective memory-actually exhibiting the ability after pregnancy,” Franssen says. “That’s significant evidence that this trait may be hidden inside many more species, and that
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
pregnancy is an event that unlocks it.” The specific neurologic changes that happen during pregnancy are under investigation. “It could be that certain hormones are released when a female becomes pregnant that effectively rewire the brain to give it certain advantages it needs to care for its young, or it could be that certain switches get turned on during childbirth, unlocking these dormant traits and behaviors,” Franssen says. Researchers are probing brain tissue for neuron activity that will tell them how the rodents use prospective memory skills. A key to finding those neurological changes might be in adoptive parents. Numerous studies have shown that women who adopt children take on many of the behaviors that women who have just given birth do as a natural part of caring for the child. “We see many of the same ‘mommy’ behaviors showing up in females who have not given birth,” Franssen says. “It could be the smells, the sounds, and/or the hormones that are given off by the pups themselves that drives neurological changes. That’s what’s fascinating about this research: There are a thousand roads to go down, including discovering if ‘adoptive’ rats also demonstrate prospective memory.” Although the quest for neurological evidence continues, the result may already be obvious to many kids for whom mom is already a superhero. Matthew McWilliams works for Longwood University. To learn more about Adam Franssen and his motherhood studies, visit www.longwood.edu.
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healthy grin Oral health in young children By Linda Hurtado
T
hree-year-old Taylor is a little nervous. This is her first trip to the dentist. The office staff can tell, and a dental assistant calms her by cooing, “tickle, tickle, tickle! Are you going to let us tickle your teeth like that?” Taylor smiles back, and that’s when her mother Courtney Jones knows she is going to be OK. “This was her first time so even I was a little nervous, but she did good,” says Jones, who can definitely claim some of the credit for her daughter’s relaxed attitude. “We watched some YouTube videos before we came in, videos of little kids going to the dentist and having their teeth brushed.” The American Academy of Pediatric Dentists recommends that children make their first visit to the dentist at age 1. Dr. Harry Bopp with Dentistry for Children in Lakeland says that first visit is an important stage in a child’s oral health. “That’s when the first couple of teeth are in,” Bopp says. “There’s not a problem with most of these children, no decay problems as such, but if we can get them on the right track with what they’re eating and how they’re having their teeth cleaned, we can prevent future cavities.” To relax little children, pediatric dentists often set up a movie room in their offices where children can watch animated movies and shows while they wait. Bopp’s Lakeland office has a movie room and video game room that
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also keep siblings occupied. Bopp explains that the goal is to make children want to come back, because unfortunately, tooth decay is on the rise. “Children today eat a lot of sweets,” Bopp says. “The sweet, sticky candies and the sodas are the culprits for the dental decay. The cavities can grow into the tooth. It [the tooth] gets sensitive to hot and cold fluids and then it just starts hurting on its own. The little face can get all swollen because of infections and there have been some real tragedies from dental decay in children when it’s not taken care of.” So what are the main culprits? At the top of the list: taking a bottle to bed in the first year or two of life, says Bopp. Also to blame are milk soaking into the teeth; sippy cups filled with soda, juice or flavored drinks; treats like gummy bears, sticky candies and chewing gum; and breakfast cereal. Pediatric dentists ask parents to read the cereal ingredients. “I think that’s the thing that surprises parents,” Bopp says. “You think you are giving them a healthy breakfast, but if you look at the ingredients there’s a lot of sugar in it.” Rounding out the top five culprits of tooth decay is the children themselves. Experts nationwide say children are not brushing their teeth well or often enough. Standard guidelines are for kids to brush at least twice a day. Children younger than 6 or 7 should still get help brushing from parents and other adults. Semi-annual checkups
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
with fluoride and sealant, when needed, is also a plus for healthy teeth. Bopp hears from many parents who wonder how serious a cavity on a baby tooth can be when the baby tooth will eventually be replaced by a permanent one. “The truth is, yes, [the back teeth] come out at 10 or 11 years old and the front teeth come out at 6 or 7 years old, but a lot of bad things can happen between coming in at age one and those teeth coming out at age eleven,” Bopp warns. “A cavity can go from nothing to something in six months. We can do something to repair that, but after six months it can become a big hole and that becomes a big problem.” A time line from experts for moms and dads suggests that children should be off the bottle by their first birthday and definitely should not drink from the bottle in bed, where the milk can pool in the back of the mouth while your child is laying down. By age 3, experts recommend you wean your child off the pacifier. And by age 4 – 5, experts warn against continued thumbsucking. “It will cause the anterior teeth to protrude out,” explains Bopp. And until your child is approximately 7 or 8 years old, an adult should help him or her brush their teeth to make sure they are brushing correctly. Linda Hurtado is an ABC Action News anchor and health reporter.
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stop abuse Taking responsibility for children
By Krista Byrd
s
avannah Hardin was only 9 years old when she stopped breathing. Her long, blond hair would never blow in the breeze. She would never stick her toes into the ocean, kiss a boy or ask her mother for dating advice.
She didn’t stop breathing because of a medical condition, or because of something that she couldn’t avoid, like a car accident or a plane crash. She stopped breathing because that day, she had eaten a candy bar on the school bus and lied about it to her grandmother. Her grandmother, Joyce Garrard, decided that Savannah’s punishment should be to run, picking up sticks in her yard. Savannah ran for three hours. She ran until she collapsed and couldn’t breathe.
“At least four people saw this happening, and that is one of the biggest issues we face when it comes to child abuse,” says Kelley Parris, executive director of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. The Children’s Board, along with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, sees children and families like Savannah Hardin’s every day who are enduring abusive situations. Whether it is mental or emotional abuse, sexual abuse or physical abuse, children face abuse every day. “Everybody is responsible for children. Not just the parents or teachers, but everyone in the community is responsible,” says Parris. It is important to look for signs of abuse in all the children you come in contact with, including your children’s friends and classmates, even kids you regularly encounter at the grocery store or the park. “The more isolated a family is, the more at risk that family is for having some sort of abuse or neglect situation in their home,” says Sunny Hall, vice president of Client Services at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. Parris says that some of the signs that you can look for are children with low self-esteem who seem withdrawn, and kids with sexual knowledge beyond their age or bruises on softer parts of their bodies like under the humerus. Other red flags include a child who is chronically absent from school or other activities, seems malnourished and self-critical, or constantly disheveled. “We see a lot of neglect as well, which is an abuse in itself, and typically the signs are the same,” says Parris. The list of signs that a child is being abused can seem long, but the main things to look for are injuries and emotional issues. “There are some other signs you can look for which might indicate abuse or neglect,” Hall says. “You should look for kids who have injuries inconsistent with their age; for example, a 2-year-old shouldn’t have a broken arm.”
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Families in abusive situations also often withdraw or try to stay away from being a part of the community, says Hall. They will be less likely to come to community events or to allow their children to participate in activities after school. One of the main things to remember when it comes to abuse and discipline is that parents don’t want to be abusive and kids don’t want to be abused. “The truth is that most of the people who have kids have them, love them, want them to be successful, want them to be happy, and often are just frustrated or isolated, or just don’t really know how to provide the right environment for their kids,” says Hall. Often, parents who were beaten or spanked when they were children will use the same methods on their own children. This cycle can be broken through talking about it and getting help. The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay offers a variety of programs to help families to stay out of unmanageable and abusive situations, including inhome classes, parenting classes and counseling. These can be crucial for parents who may feel that they don’t know how to discipline their kids or that they aren’t cut out for parenting. “If there is a situation that is critical, we have our trauma counseling for kids which is different from regular family counseling,” says Hall. “It can be traumatic for the parents too—they don’t want to hurt their kids, so responding to the trauma in parents is equally important to responding to trauma in kids.” Discipline should also become a topic of conversation. Abusive situations often arise from a parent feeling frustrated and not knowing how to properly discipline their child, so making sure that you understand what will make your child react positively is key.
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It is also important to talk to the parents of your child’s friends if you think their level of discipline is crossing a line. “The biggest thing when it comes to parents who over-discipline a child is knowing the family so that you can talk to them about it,” says Hall. “When you know the family, you can talk to them and not being afraid to open that dialogue is key.” Joyce Garrard claimed she was just disciplining her granddaughter. But no matter how well-intentioned Garrard claims her punishment was, a child was still abused and killed, and spent the last moments of her life in fear. This incident highlights a critical problem when it comes to discipline: knowing where the line is and exactly when you have crossed it. “We have seen the research that corporal punishment really doesn’t work,” Hall says. “Some people say, ‘well, I smacked my kid’s hand when he reached for a hot stove,’ and that probably will work on a 3-year-old, but it won’t work on an 8-year old. We have to find ways to get kids to respond. So, for example, taking away privileges and having conversations with kids—you won’t have to reason and get into an argument with a 3-year-old but you need to be able to set a limit and follow through. The follow through and consistency is the most important part and it requires a lot of commitment.” Parris recommends positive rather than negative reinforcement. “It is important to know which behaviors to ignore and which to address. There is no discounting positive reinforcement—it always works,” Parris advises. Some people may believe that positive reinforcement is “newagey” or going too light, but there are other ways in which to discipline your child without simply putting them in a timeout chair or literally slapping them on the wrist. “We have a new word in town in place of the word discipline, and we call it consequences,” says Dr. Shefali Tsabary, clinical psychologist, author and parenting expert. “Every action has a consequence. So if we follow the laws of the universe, we have to be responsible for every action that we put out there.” Tsabary has found that there is nothing more effective than the power of natural consequences. “For example, this one parent came to me and said, I am so sick of my child. She leaves clothes everywhere and the lights on—always a mess. I said, ‘Well, the only natural consequence besides the kid paying the bill-- but she was only 8-- would be to take out the lightbulbs. She took out the lightbulbs and it worked. So the idea is to use whatever would happen naturally to create the consequence,” she says. “We just have to start taking responsibility for all of the children we come in contact with and removing the stigma of talking about abuse,” says Parris. “Once we remove the taboo surrounding talking about abuse, and open up a dialogue, we can start to emotionally heal and we can start to put an end to child abuse. Everybody is responsible.” If you suspect someone is being abused, or if you or your children are in an abusive situation, please call 1-800-962-2873 to speak to the abuse hotline, or dial 2-1-1 to reach the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. For more information visit www.ChildrensBoard.org .
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Mom Inspiration Moms who go above and beyond By Krista Byrd
i
n honor of Mother’s Day, we are sharing stories of women who are incredible and inspirational mothers. These are women who have opened their heart despite obstacles and hardships, and who have made the tight-rope-walking-while-juggling-fireballs-with-plates-on-your-head act of motherhood look as effortless as a walk in the park. Every mother carries her own magic. Every mother has strength beyond what she imagined possible, and through these women we hope that you will recognize that you are inspirational too.
Jennifer Mallan Jennifer Mallan is a pastor of Christian Family Church, the dean of Bible College at the church, the leader of Significance women’s ministry, and a life coach. But her most beloved role? Mother. This inspirational mom wears many hats throughout her day, and this is how she does it: Tell us about your family: I have five boys and I always say that two I birthed from my heart and three I birthed from my womb. I got my oldest boys, Alvin and Dewayne, when I was 23. I met them when they were 7 and 8 and they came to live with me when they were 9 and 10. Alvin is now 31 and Dwayne, my oldest, is 32. My first biological son is Zachary. He is 19, then Josiah is 17, and Jonathan is 12. Dewayne, my oldest, has two sons, and we have had 11 foster sons. We are a multicultural family and we have had quite an adventure with boys. What do you love about motherhood? I love being able to cultivate and influence and just pour into their lives as they develop and grow through the different seasons. A lot of the ways that I parent are grounded and based in my beliefs and my interpretation of the Bible and what I think would be pleasing to God. How would you describe your parenting style? I am very hands on with my kids. I am kind of in your face and up front. I text my children, I call them a lot, I try to engage them. It’s challenging with boys and I know sometimes they probably wish I wasn’t so engaging. I really try to survey their hearts, find out what’s going on, gauge them, and get them to weigh in on things. I don’t like TVs in the bedroom or things that distract you away from communicating and connecting. One of our greatest challenges as parents is knowing how to transition through the seasons of their lives and to become who they need us to become at that season. There’s many times that I feel like I’ve been in a rut because they’re growing and I wanted them to stay at a certain place. Because we’re in ministry, our lives are in a fishbowl and where my boys get over scrutinized sometimes and I have had to work really hard on not holding them to an unfair or unrealistic standard because others in the congregation project that the pastor’s kids should be perfect so they can tell their children to be perfect. What are you most proud of as a parent? When people ask me how will you rate how you did your job as a parent: I feel like my number one responsibility as a parent is, before they leave my home, to connect their hearts to Christ so that when they’re out of my home going through anything, they know how to find Christ in the midst of their storm or struggle or trial. Because God’s the greatest parent. Anything I do pales in comparison to his parenting skills. Any advice for other moms? Enjoy the journey and realize that your children are only in your home a very small percentage of life. If we all live to be 100, then my children are only in my home 18 percent of my life, which is so small. Enjoy the journey, realize they’re there for such a short time, and raise the kind of child that you would like to be friends with when they turn 18.
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Regina Hord Owner of FIT4MOM and organizer of the Tampa Bay Kids Market, Regina Hord is a busy woman. Add in the fact that she is a mother of two boys, and you might wonder just how she does it all. Here is this inspirational mom’s story: What do you love about motherhood? I love being a mom because every day is an adventure. There’s always something to do and it’s definitely never boring. I have two boys, Jeffrey, 4 and Jacob, 20 months. It’s really fun to see the kids learning new things every day and even cooler that I’m also learning something new from them each day. How do you juggle it all? I am very lucky to have a husband who is supportive of my choice to stay at home and work on building new businesses while spending time with our kids. Without his support, I would probably have to put the kids in daycare and work a job with traditional work hours, but he tolerates my crazy schedule because he understands that it is important to me to have the kids home with me during the day. What are you most passionate about? I am passionate about helping other people. Through my fitness company, FIT4MOM Tampa Bay, I am able to help other moms by providing fitness classes that are focused on motherhood and a support group through Our Village. The best way to teach is to lead by example and when the kids get to see mom working out in class, they mimic this behavior and start living a healthy lifestyle from toddlerhood. I get texts and emails all the time from moms who have babies who randomly bust out doing burpees at the grocery store or tricep dips in the bathtub. The friendship and playdates are just an added bonus! What are you most proud of? While my boys will always be my number one pride and joy, I currently am most proud of my work. My business partner, Andrea Bowe, and I have worked so hard building our FIT4MOM business (tampabay.fit4mom.com) and growing the Tampa Kids Market (www.tampakidsmarket.com) the past couple of years while managing to keep our families happy and growing. We have created two jobs for ourselves that allow us to spend time with our kids while providing two services that enrich the community and help the kids grow into better people. The fact that we have jobs that allow us to take our kids to the zoo in the middle of the day is pretty awesome and I’m proud of the life we are building for our children. Any advice for other moms? The best advice I ever got was from my Grandma, so that’s the same advice I like to give other moms. At my first baby shower, my stepmom had everyone write down a piece of advice for me. My Grandma’s piece of advice was “Listen to everybody’s advice, smile and nod, then do whatever you want.” As a mom, especially a new mom, you will be on information overload from parenting books, parenting classes, the internet, and solicited and unsolicited advice from friends and family. Heck, you’ll even get breastfeeding tips from the cashier at the grocery store and maybe even be shamed into thinking you’re holding your baby wrong from the little old lady down the street. SMILE, NOD, MOVE ON.
Carrie Wildes
Carrie Wildes is a wife, photographer and business owner, and founder of the Promise Love Foundation. Most importantly, she is a mother to two beautiful baby girls. Find out how she does it all: Tell us about your family: We have two little girls, Madeline Joy and Everly Hope and they are 14 months and 10 months old. They were both born last year and we were able to adopt basically back to back.It was basically a pretty cool situation that occurred. My husband David and I were foster parents first and we always wanted to adopt. Both of our adoptions are open and the girls will know from the beginning what their background is. What are you most proud of? I know for some people who work, mom guilt is a big thing, but I have always known that this is what it’s going to be. I am a career oriented person. Kids are a huge priority but I don’t feel guilty for working or anything like that because if I didn’t, we wouldn’t be able to have the life that we do and give them the life that they’re going to have. I am really proud of being able to run a successful business and keep it going and having built it so that when things in life do happen, that it’s able to still keep going and sustain what we’re doing. We moved here eight years ago. I actually have an engineering background. I don’t have a background in photography or sales or know anything about the wedding industry, so when we moved here, we were starting from scratch. I also started a foundation that helps families raise money for adoption and we also give advice and counseling on foster and adoption, whether you want to sign up to adopt with an agency or become a foster parent or a guardian ad litem. It’s become my social passion. These kids, especially in the foster system and kids that need to be adopted, are so important and they are kids that don’t have a voice.
What do you love about motherhood? I love a lot of things about being a mother. Every morning the time that I get to spend with them, watching every little step of their development and their little personalities is just the most fun thing ever. I am 36; we had the girls when we were 35, and I feel like when you’re a little bit older, you’re in a different stage in life. You’re not so worried about every little thing that happens and reading every single book, and I don’t really worry about all those crazy things that I know a lot of parents and moms do. We are here to enjoy it and I love every minute we get to spend with them. It is interesting to see how they develop and their personalities. It is something new every day. Any advice for other moms? Savor every moment. Don’t sweat the small stuff or compare yourself to other people or worry about the little things in life that probably won’t ever happen. Because, especially with a newborn, time goes so quickly and they’re that tiny little squishy baby for just a couple of weeks. So if you’re worrying about everything you can’t really just take time and enjoy the moment. Prioritize that because it goes so fast and you won’t have it for very long. I feel like when you experience a hard situation, it opens up a new world to allowing you to help others. I always challenge people to think about where they can help people or how they can volunteer, or what they find to be socially passionate about. In the whole scheme of life, there are so many other things that are so important.
Kim Kindle Kim Kindle works for a nationally syndicated radio show that can be heard in 150 cities, Rise Up Country. She is a hard working wife and mother, and no matter what life has thrown her way, she has kept going in a way that makes her an incredibly inspirational mom. Here is Kim’s story: Tell us about your family: I have three boys and my oldest is David, 15. Logan is 8 and is my special needs little buddy. And Nathan is 6. It’s never-ending excitement, especially having boys. They keep me on my toes for sure. I was meant to be a mother of sons because they love dirt and I am not afraid to get dirty. I love seeing life through their eyes— they each have a different perspective and they each bring something awesome to our family. We wouldn’t be complete without any of them. Have you faced any challenges as a mother? When Logan was born I went to my pediatrician and I said, “I don’t think this baby likes me!” Every time I would pick him up he would cry. I would lift him out of his carrier and he would scream because we were holding him. So we knew early on there were some things going on but we weren’t sure what yet. We went through acid reflux testing and we found out he has severe acid reflux and GERD so we got him on medication for that and it got a little bit better, but every time I would pick him up he would just scream. So from the beginning it was an undertaking. We never realized that he was missing important milestones. Then he became 2 and he was still nonverbal, and then he was 2 and a half and he was still nonverbal, and then right before his third birthday he was diagnosed with autism. And because of that diagnosis we learned that he has epilepsy as well. We didn’t realize that he was having a rare type of seizure—Epson seizures—and basically he would stare off into space. It’s a seizure that the naked eye can’t see. So when he was diagnosed, we were fortunate in the fact that our psychiatrist recommended a scan because it sometimes goes hand in hand with autism. In our case, it went hand in hand. So he was put on medication because he was having frequent seizures without us even being able to see them. In 2011 he had his first grand mal seizure. We had to call 911 and had to be transported by ambulance. It was really hard but thank goodness we knew that that could happen. Without [the] autism [diagnosis] we would’ve never known that that’s what went on. When I walked in the room, I thought he was dead. It’s an experience we will never forget. We are so grateful to have a great team of doctors. Life with Logan is never easy but it is always worth it. How do you juggle it all, and how did you overcome those challenges? I was a stay at home mom for seven years and I went back to work two years ago. Being a stay at home mom, every day was therapy, therapy, therapy; go, go, go. Most of my life was devoted to Logan. Now that I am back at work, I get to work from home sometimes and go to the office, so I have a great schedule. I am able to manage work—which I never thought I would be able to throw into the mix. When I am home I try to give them the attention and focus that they need. I am just so thankful that I have my kids. I know a lot of people out there struggle to have children and I feel grateful and blessed to be their mom. Life is so short. You have to take whatever it throws at you and keep going. There is a reason that you are still going. Life has never set us back—yes, life with Logan is different, but it has never stopped us from trying to give him the best life that we can. We know that somewhere along the way there is a purpose and a meaning for why we’re going through this. So we just do-- we keep going. Any advice for other moms? Share your story even if it’s hard. People are willing to listen and there’s got to be something going on in your life that you can help someone else with. Motherhood is like a sisterhood and you should try to build people up instead of tear them down. There is hope after terrible situations. You will come through it.
For more inspirational stories visit www.tbparenting.com/moms
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TAMPA TAMPABAY BAYPARENTING PARENTING •• MAY MAY2015 2015 •• TBParenting.com TBParenting.com
We’ve thought of everything, so you can focus on one thing.
Take a virtual tour of the TGH Women’s Center at www.tgh.org/womenscenter Affiliated with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
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What's Happening mosi children's gala This special event on May 2 encourages kids to give change to make change. Admission to the Children’s Gala is your MOSI piggy bank filled with change and includes one parent chaperone, and tickets for additional parents or siblings without piggy banks is $10 per person. Piggy banks are free and available at MOSI’s ticket office. The money they raise will help send another child, who otherwise could not afford it, to Summer Science Camp at MOSI. MOSI.org
Beauty and the beast Experience the romance and enchantment of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” at the Straz Center May 5 through May 10. This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song. Wednesday, May 6 is Broadway Family Night when kids under 12 get 50 percent off their ticket price with the purchase of a regularly priced adult ticket. StrazCenter.org
disney on ice frozen Disney on Ice Frozen is playing at the Amalie Arena May 14 through May 17! Be magically whisked away into the wintry world of Arendelle, and dazzled by amazing special effects and astonishing skating. Hosted by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, with special guest appearances by your most beloved Disney Princesses and characters from favorites like Disney Pixar’s “Toy Story,” “Finding Nemo” and Disney’s “The Lion King,” this unforgettable celebration of love and friendship will leave your family with memories to last a lifetime. Best of all, tickets start at just $25! DisneyOnIce.com
mother's day events Celebrate your Chief Family Officer—Mom—this Mother’s Day with some of the amazing events happening around the Bay Area. Take the mother in your life out for a fun day at the museum and get in free on Saturday, May 9 at Great Explorations Museum in St. Petersburg or on Sunday, May 10 to the Glazer Children’s Museum in downtown Tampa. You can also take your mom to Lowry Park Zoo or the Florida Aquarium all weekend long for free admission. If mom likes to keep it low-key, take her to Mother’s Day Tea at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center. For more great Mother’s Day events, visit TBParenting.com/MothersDay2015.
girls glow workshops Join the Centre4Girls this summer for the Girls Glow series of workshops. Girls will learn about confidence and inner beauty, public speaking, hygiene and skin care and dressing for your body. Also included are parent workshops and a fashion-inspired event featuring girls of all shapes and sizes to help teach your daughters that their self-worth can’t be measured by a scale. For more information, specific dates for the ten-week course and a discount on their summer camp, visit CentreforGirls.org.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
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I5414
Extraordinary
Woman
By Angela Ardolino
Mastering the art of motherhood, work and community.
Dr. Erin Cockrell is a pediatric hematologist and oncologist and director of the Hemophilia Treatment Center at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. A seemingly quiet, soft spoken doctor, when it comes to chatting with her patients she is incredibly outgoing. As she walks through the hospital’s halls, she high-fives patients in for treatment and remembers their names without needing a clipboard. She can recall fondly the patients that she formed a strong connection with, and the nurses all wave friendly hellos as she approaches. Cockrell grew up in Northeast Ohio and graduated from Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2000. Cockrell’s experience includes serving the children at Akron Children’s Hospital as a physician in the Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology; as co-director of the Young Women’s Bleeding Disorder Clinic; and most recently as site director of Mahoning Hematology/ Oncology Services. She has also served as Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Northeastern Ohio Universities Colleges of Medicine and Pharmacy, and as Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology at the Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Cockrell has been married to her husband, Colin, for 15 years and has three daughters, 10-year old Josie, 8-year-old Sydney and 5-year-old Tessa. She moved from Ohio to Tampa two years ago to start her career at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, which provides more acute medical and surgical pediatric care than all other hospitals in Tampa Bay and is Tampa’s only dedicated children’s hospital. “Exchanging cold winters for Florida beaches was an easy choice for me,” Cockrell says.
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
“And of course, my kids were beyond happy when they discovered we would be living so close to Disney World.” Dr. Cockrell’s clinical interests include bleeding and clotting disorders; and adolescent and young adult oncology. She is a member of the Hemostasis and Thrombosis Research Society, American Thrombosis and Hemostasis Network, Children’s Oncology Group, and American Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology. what is your biggest fear? Not setting a good example for others, especially my girls. I want to inspire my children by what I do, the way my parents inspired me, and I would be really disappointed in myself if my children grow up and say that I cared more about my work than them. what advice would you give to other women? Do what makes you happy. Don’t settle. I can’t comprehend spending my life doing something that doesn’t fulfill me. Perhaps it’s a career, but it might also be something like volunteering your time, being involved in your church, or a hobby. Just be sure whatever you spend your time doing makes you happy. What is your proudest moment or biggest achievement? I would definitely say what I’m most proud of is my family. My daughters give me so much joy. It’s a great feeling when I hear compliments about my girls being respectful, kind-hearted and compassionate people. Professionally, it’s knowing that I’ve made a difference in the lives of my patients and their families. It’s never easy to tell a parent their child has cancer, but I do my very best to help families deal with this difficult diagnosis. One
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
of my former patients recently graduated from nursing school and he sent me a note that said “I owe this big accomplishment to you and the other doctors and nurses who cared for me when I had cancer. You are the reason I am here today.” I’m so proud of him. how do you relax and take time for yourself? Going for a run or doing yoga always helps me relax. When I can find time, reading a good novel helps me unwind as well. And even though it’s not necessarily relaxing, spending time with my kids always helps me unwind. what is your favorite thing to do with your kids in tampa bay? We love spending time at the beach. There are so many beautiful beaches in the Tampa Bay area. Pass-a-Grille Beach is definitely one of our favorite places to visit. My girls also love going to Busch Gardens and the zoo. who is your biggest inspiration or role model? My mom was and still is my biggest role model. She was a nurse in an intensive care unit, and then a hospice nurse. She instilled in me the notion that as long as you know you did your best, then you can’t be disappointed in yourself. She has a strong faith in God, and helped me learn that as well. She made sure I knew the importance of treating others the way I wish to be treated. And I’m grateful to both of my parents for showing me the value of having a hard work ethic. I’m also inspired on a daily basis by the strength and faith I see in my patients and their families. They are a shining example of the resilience of the human spirit, and the way they tackle a life-threatening illness with such courage and grace is inspiring.
Dr. erin Cockrell, D.o. Dr. Cockrell at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital’s Secret Garden. Photo by Jeanine McLeod, PhotosonCloud9.com
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Tbp product guide
our favorite
the talk bracelet The Talk Bracelet is a diary and charm bracelet combination designed to transform mother/daughter talks into fun, enjoyable occasions that foster bonds that last a lifetime. $150 www. thetalkbracelet.com
Zazzle phone Case Contoured precisely to fit a variety of phones, this Case-Mate case features a hard shell plastic exterior and shock absorbing liner to
wow mom!
protect your device. You can personalize it with family photos and custom designs. Best of all, it is printed in the United States. $45 www.zazzle.com
Flavor Infuser Water Bottle Whether it’s a gift for Mother’s Day or just a treat for the kids, flavored
cupcake bath bombs Throw a cupcake into your bath water and it will begin to dissolve, softening your bath water until it feels silky smooth on your skin. Cupcake Bath Bombs relax your muscles, remove toxins and grime from your skin, and
water is a great alternative to sugary sodas. Simply insert your favorite fruits into the rod, fill up the bottle with water, and you have a refreshing and healthy treat! $15 www.uncommongoods.com
nourish your epidermis with antioxidants. All this, and your bathroom will smell like a bakery! $30 www.thinkgeek.com
resqMe Chewbeads
About the size of a key remote and just 2.93
Moms with babies shouldn’t have to give up their
inches long, the ResQMe tool is the smallest,
jewelry! Chewbeads is a line of 100 percent silicone
most lightweight car escape tool that you can find.
necklaces and bracelets that are chemical-free, heat-
Though it fits in the palm of your hand, you can cut
resistant, safe and easy to clean. They’re perfect
through seatbelts and shatter windows with this
for moms to style and babies to chew! $37 www.
tool so that you are never trapped in your car. $10
chewbeads.com
www.resqme.com
pocket poppet Treat yourself this Mother’s Day with a stylish cardigan for mothers on the go! You won’t ever be cold in a restaurant again with this water resistant purse-turned-cardigan by your side. You can even get them for your teens to keep them warm in school! $99 www.pocketpoppet.com
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
canary all-in-one home security Gain peace of mind when you are not at home with this amazing home security solution. Not only does the Canary use a camera to monitor your home, but it also monitors air quality, temperature, and can even adapt to your home over time. Best of all, the Canary has no monthly fees or contract! $250 www.verizonwireless.com
Something cool
fivesse beach bags This larger bag is perfect when packing for multiple people – either for a romantic getaway, a girls’ trip, or for the entire family. This bag holds multiple towels and has several well-thought out interior pockets for all the small things that usually get lost-and gross-in the bottom of a large beach bag. $86 www.fivesse.com
Thrive Energy Cookbook Packed with 150 plant-based, nutrient-dense, whole food recipes developed with the Thrive nutritional philosophy, Thrive Energy Cookbook brings to life the concepts that started the functional, plant-based nutrition revolution. $17 www.dacapopress.com
Snapper rock Kids Swimwear Protect your baby’s delicate skin with these
Wildwood Citrine Duvet Set
adorable UV50 short sleeve, one-piece sun suits
Inspired by vintage ink drawings, this duvet set
that block 98 percent of all harmful UVA and
features a whimsical world of hand-illustrated
UVB rays. Featuring an easy-open front zip with
black-and-white woodland animals against a vibrant
zip protection flap, this quick drying swimsuit
background. Made from 100 percent cotton with a
is available for girls and boys of all ages. $40
200 thread count, this duvet feels as good as it looks.
www.snapperrock.com
$149/$169 www.dwellstudio.com
refresh-a-baby Make your summer travel effortless with Refresh-a-baby! You can turn any waterbottle into a baby bottle-- making hot days at the beach or at the theme park easier
Mom and Me Book This journal will help Mom and child to write, draw and doodle in tandem, sharing favorites, likes, dislikes,
and your bag much lighter. Comes in a variety of colors. $7 www.refreshababy.com
memories, hopes and concerns. Guided prompts take mothers and children on enjoyable journeys of discovery about family times, holidays, friendships, growing up, school and much more. $25 www.fromyoutome.us
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
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in 2,000 years! The first of its kind in the Southeastern U.S., a dazzling display of custom-made Chinese lantern structures are illuminating Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo! Colossal by day and radiant after dark, guests can discover 30 spectacular scenes representing traditional Chinese dragons and folklore along with larger-than-life replicas of Zoo animals. Zoominations also features Chinese performers and an artisan market with unique handmade crafts.
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South hillsborough apollo beach | lithia | riverview ruskin | south tampa | valrico | fishhawk
Area Nonprofit Launches New Seffner Location OASIS Network (Outreach Assisting Students In School), a grass-roots nonprofit organization dedicated to providing assistance to Hillsborough County students, has opened a new location in Seffner to accommodate an increased need for services in that area of the school district. OASIS is a volunteer driven organization which provides free clothing and other basic necessities to school children through a unique partnership with Hillsborough County Public School social workers. Social workers identify students in need and utilize OASIS to retrieve items based on the children’s need. “We are excited about providing a higher level of service to the school social workers and students in the eastern and southern portions of our county by opening this more convenient OASIS location,” says Ginger Bean, executive director of OASIS. Approximately 60 percent of HCPS students live in poverty. By providing these underprivileged children with basic necessities, OASIS eliminates some barriers that can prevent students from attending school. “This group is a very reliable resource for clothing and hygiene items for our students with needs,” says Ken Gaughan, supervisor of School Social Work. “The expansion to East County will make these resources more accessible and available in less time.” OASIS, which receives no government funding and relies strictly on donations and grants, collects new and gently used clothing, and purchases hygiene products, shoes, socks, undergarments, backpacks, alarm clocks and other school supplies for students. Volunteers pick up donations from designated sites, sort donations, launder clothing and organize clothing drives. OASIS was founded in 2001 in Tampa Palms by a group of school volunteers who recognized the need for such an organization. Additional sites have since been opened since in east Tampa and south Tampa with Seffner becoming its fourth location. Those interested in volunteering or donating can email OASIS at OasisNewTampa@aol.com. For additional information, visit www.oasis-network.org.
Top Chefs raise Dollars for Local Kids Champions for Children, a Hillsborough county nonprofit agency that offers development, support and education programs and services to local families and children, held its 6th Annual Top Chef Tampa Bay fundraiser on Monday, March 16 at A La Carte Event Pavilion in Tampa, raising $55,000 to support its programs. “We’re grateful for this year’s chefs, sponsors, attendees and donors, who made this fundraising event one-of-a-kind and so successful,” says Brian McEwen, executive director of Champions for Children. “It means a lot to our organization to bring people together for a memorable dining experience that benefits families and children in their community.” The event featured a silent auction and showcased the culinary talents of eight local chefs who each designed a menu and prepared a five-course meal for 12 guests tableside. The title of “Top Chef Tampa Bay” was awarded to Vanessa Jaurique of MOSI/Ovations Food Services, who also took the title in 2004. For more information about Champions for Children’s programs and services, visit www.cfctb.org.
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dates: May 2-3, various times RiverFest 2015 Celebrate Hillsborough river with a series of events across various downtown venues. Hit the Mac and Cheese Festival and Bloody Mary Festival, catch some smooth sounds at the Tampa Jazz Festival, join Big Brothers/Big Sisters for its Day out event, and check out the Downtown Carnival at Cotanchobee Park. www.tampagov.net.
May 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Ybor City Saturday Morning Market Come out for this year-round, pet-friendly, outdoor market in Ybor City’s Centennial Park and shop for fresh produce, gourmet foods and sauces, fresh baked breads, herbs, plants, unique gifts and artwork. Free admission and parking. www.ybormarket.com
May 12, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Developmental Checkups Bring children up to 36 months for this event by the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County at the Glazer Children’s Museum. Pre-registration is required and checkups are included with general admission. Champions for Children professionals will review and discuss children’s development with parents. www.glazermuseum.org.
May 21, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Brown Bag Lunch: The Confidence Gap Between Men and Women Get tips for overcoming self-doubt, developing courage and clarity to take action, and better understand how confidence helps create strong leaders at this Centre for Women workshop at 305 S. Hyde Park Ave. 813-251-8437, ext. 225. www.thecentre.org
May 21-23, various times Hansel and Gretel and the Gingerbread Witch! See a performance of this beloved fairy tale when PuppetWorld Playhouse brings its unique take on the story at the Dover venue. Shows are 10:30 a.m. Thursday and Friday, and 11 a.m. Saturday. 813-659-0659. www.puppetworld.com
May 30, 6:30 a.m. Walk a Mile for a Child Lace up the sneakers for a good cause at this annual event held in honor of the 2,900 children served in the Hillsborough County foster care system at Al Lopez Park in Tampa. Registration opens at 6:30 a.m. www.eckerd.org
T R AV E L I N G EXHIBIT
You watched the story come to life on the big screen, now let your children experience the classic Wizard of Oz™ tale at the Glazer Children’s Museum. The Wizard of Oz™ traveling exhibit is only here for a limited time, adding 2,500 square feet of fun for all Museum guests. Discover your courage, heart, and smarts on an interactive adventure through the Land of Oz with the entire family. For more information, visit G L A Z E R M U S E U M .O R G
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north hillsborough carrollwood | citrus park | lutz | new tampa odessa | temple terrace | westchase
Swinging "Fore" a Good Cause Area golfers are invited to come out for a four-person golf scramble as part of the Tampa Bay Federal Foundation’s 20th Annual Swing “Fore” Charity Golf Tournament on Friday, May 1. Participants must pre-register to take part in the tournament being held at Westchase Golf Club, located at 11602 Westchase Golf Drive in Tampa. The Tampa Bay Federal Foundation was founded in 1994 by Tampa Bay Federal Credit Union and is a registered 501(c) 3 organization. Its primary mission is to facilitate corporate citizenship of the credit union by raising and contributing funds to what it deems as worthwhile charitable organizations in the Tampa Bay community. Since its inception, the Foundation’s annual golf event has raised and distributed over $225,000 to local charitable organizations. Besides 18 holes of golf, the 2015 Swing “Fore” Charity Golf Tournament features games, an auction, raffle prizes, golf plaques, food and drink, and live music. Registration begins at 11 a.m. with a 1:30 p.m. tee time. Fees are $125 per player, and include a goody bag, beverages, light lunch, dinner following the event and a 2015 Paradise Golf Club Summer Membership, which is valued at $199. This year’s main beneficiary is All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, part of the Children’s Miracle Network of hospitals. The network helps to provide programs, services and treatment for sick and injured children, as well as support programs that seek to prevent children’s injuries and promote healthy lifestyles. Other beneficiaries for this year’s event include the HCC Scholarship Fund and the FAME (Family Assistance in Member Emergencies) program. For more information about this year’s Swing “Fore” Charity Golf Tournament, go to www. tampabayfederalfoundation.com/golf.
A Comedy Lineup Just for the Ladies Gather sisters, moms, aunts, adult daughters and girlfriends for a fun evening of comedy just for the ladies featuring a talented all-female lineup as part of Carrollwood Cultural Center’s annual Girls Night Out. This year’s event takes place at the Center, located at 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa, from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, May 15 and welcomes headliner Helen Keaney, who makes her Center debut along with fellow funny lady and friend Trish Keating.
dates: May 2, 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. Great Futures Golf Scramble Hit the links for a standard 4-player golf scramble to benefit Boys and Girls Clubs of Tampa at this event hosted by The Eagle Golf Club in Odessa. Cost is $125 per player and includes green fees, range balls, cart, goody bag, breakfast and lunch. www.bgctampa.org
May 2, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Westchase Spring Garage Sale Clean out your garage or attic or simply come out to help others get rid of their treasures at this annual event held throughout the Westchase community. Get more information at www.westchasewca.com.
May 3, 10 and 17, 12:30-2 p.m. CoderDojo Tampa Bay Area: Teaching Kids to Code Sign up the kids for a fun and free opportunity to learn about programming in the computer lab at the New Tampa Public Library. Young people will learn how to code and develop websites, apps and games from experienced mentors. A parent must attend with each child. Windows laptop is recommended but can be provided. Registration required. 813-273-3652
May 9, 3-7 p.m. Temple Terrace Craft BrewFest Come out for this inaugural fundraiser hosted by The City of Temple Terrace and Rotary Club of Temple Terrace at Woodmount Park. Enjoy unlimited tastings of more than 30 brews, live local music and food from area restaurants. Tickets are $30 early bird until May 8 and $35 day of event. Proceeds benefit Rotary’s Camp Florida for children with special needs and challenges. www.templeterracebrewfest.com
May 30, 10:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Keaney began her career in New York City where she honed her comedy skills at The Boston Comedy Club and The Comic Strip. She previously appeared as a co-host on Comedy Central’s “Short Attention Span Theater” and “The Big Day.” She has also had guest spots on NBC’s “The John Larroquette Show,” HBO’s “Not Necessarily the News” and USA’s “Lost on Earth.” Keating began her career at Universal Studios and studied improv with Second City, going on to perform with comedy teams The Annoyance, The Improv Olympic and The Playground. Also making her Center debut is Aniria, who will serve as the evening’s emcee.
Kids Make Movies! Bring the kids to Lutz Branch Library for a fun moviemaking event. Members of the Library’s Teen Advisory Board will teach kids grades K-5 how to script, film and edit their own movies. Parents must complete a Talent Release form for their children. www.hcplc.org
Tickets for Girls Night Out are $14 members and $18 general admission in advance; $16 members and $20 general admission day of show. To purchase tickets or get additional information, visit www.carrollwoodcenter.org.
BROADWAY BOUND Youth Theatre Group Presents The Wizard of Oz See this talented young group of performers bring the classic L. Frank Baum tale to life at Carrollwood Cultural Center in Tampa. Revisit Kansas and Oz with Dorothy, Toto and friends. Tickets are $12-$14. www. carrollwoodcenter.org
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
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new pain Management option During Labor St. Petersburg General Hospital is now offering nitrous oxide to pregnant women as a pain management alternative to more conventional forms during labor. Nitrous Oxide is a pain management technology that allows the patient to control the amount of analgesia and can be a good alternative for women who want something in between feeling nothing--as with an epidural - and feeling everything. According to the American College of Nurse-Midwives, nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” is mixed with half oxygen and breathed through a mask or a mouthpiece. The laboring mother holds her own mask, so only she decides when to use it and how much she needs. Ideally, she starts to breathe in the gas mixture about 30 seconds before a contraction begins. This helps to work best about the same time as the contraction reaches its peak, to get the greatest amount of relief. As soon as the mask is pulled away, the effect of the gas in gone within a few breaths, with no residual effects to the mother or the baby. “To be able to offer yet another effective pain management option for women in labor, allows us to stay in the forefront of healthcare innovation, better serving women of the St. Petersburg community,” says Dina Freeze, Director of Women’s Services.This non-invasive pain management option, widely used in Canada, Europe and Australia, can be an especially effective option for patients who dislike needles. Nitrous oxide administration also does not affect uterine activity nor is it expected to affect the course of the first and second stages of labor or rates of cesarean delivery. For more information regarding this and other Women’s Services at St. Petersburg General Hospital, visit www.stpetegeneral.com/service/womensservices.
$28,000 awarded to Area Students and Teachers The Pinellas Education Foundation held its annual Career Education Breakfast Wednesday, March 18, when community, business and educational leaders came together to raise funds for career education programs and initiatives in Pinellas County Schools. The breakfast drew more than 200 participants and awarded more than $28,000 in funding toward classroom grants, scholarships and cash prizes to teachers and students in Pinellas County Schools. Among the event’s winners were the recipients of the inaugural Outstanding Achievement in Information Technology Awards, Lakewood High School’s Matthew Sala, Patrick Inglesby and Matthew Hamilton, who won Best Technical Design for “Virus Attack.” They will share a prize of $1,000. Michael Malkiewicz won in the category of Best Product for “Test Builder” and Kevin Duff won in the category of Best Process for “Weighted Grade Calculator.” Winner of the 2015 Next Generation Entrepreneurs Program, a year-long business competition, is Daniel Terry, from East Lake High School, who developed a device that can be launched to reach a person and pull them to safety. Courtney Thompson at Osceola Fundamental High School and Dee Chastain at Dunedin Highland Middle School were the recipients of the 2015 Career Educator of the Year Awards, which recognize outstanding Career and Technical educators in Pinellas County at the middle school and high school levels. The 2015 Academies of Pinellas Outstanding Achievement Awards went to Tarpon Springs High School, Lakewood High School, Dixie Hollins High School and Clearwater High School. Each school will receive $2,000 toward its programs.
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dates: May 1, 4-5, and 19-20, various times Roll Over and Read Bring the kids to practice their reading with tutors of the four-legged variety at one of several St. Petersburg Public Library locations as part of this innovative program. Reading therapy dogs have been known to help children gain confidence in their reading ability. For times and locations, visit www.splibraries.org.
May 2, 6-11 p.m. Score for All Kids 27th Annual VIP Auction Dress like your favorite local sports hero, cheerleader or mascot, then compete in games, bid silent and live auctions and enjoy live music and dancing at this annual fundraiser at the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront. Tickets are $160 earch and $285 per couple. Proceeds benefit All Children’s Hospital’s new Pediatric Surgical Fellowship. www.allkids.org
May 2, 7-10 p.m. Largo Central Park Celebrates 20th birthday Come out to the popular park for a special anniversary event for the whole family. Pack a chair to sit and enjoy live music, visit a beer/wine garden and local food vendor, and take the kids around the park for a variety of children’s activities. Free. www.largo.com
May 5, 12, 19 and 26, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.. Gulfport Tuesday Morning Fresh Market Browse for fresh produce, plants, gourmet foods, organic products, arts and crafts, and other unique items at this weekly open-air market held year-round in Gulfport’s Waterfront District along Beach Boulevard near 28th Ave. S. Hear live musicians and take part in a popular free clothing swap every second Tuesday monthly. Free entry and parking. www.mygulfport.us
May 13, 6 p.m. Movies in the Park Pack up the blankets and chairs and enjoy a movie on the lawn at Largo Central park. Check out the Farmers Market 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the parking lot north of the movie field. Concessions will be available for purchase. This month’s film is Field of Dreams. www.largo.com
May 14 and 28, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Wee-Time at Weedon Sign up the little ones ages 3 to 5 in this program designed to introduce kids to the wonders of the natural and cultural world at Weedon Island Preserve in St. Petersburg. Children are treated to a variety of stories and hands-on activities. Free; advance registration requested. www.weedonislandpreserve.org
Your Support
Makes a Difference All Children’s Hospital Foundation wishes to thank our Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Partners for their generous support in 2014–2015. Ace Hardware Corporation Carmike Cinemas Chico’s FAS, Inc., White House | Black Market, Soma & Boston Proper CO-OP Financial Services Costco Wholesale
Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores Marriott International, Inc. Marriott Vacations Worldwide McLane Company Miss America Organization
Credit Unions for Kids
Miracle Network Dance Marathon
Dairy Queen Corporation
Panda Restaurant Group, Inc.
Direct Energy Services
Publix Super Markets, Inc.
Extra Life
RE/MAX, LLC
Great Clips
Sam’s Club
Greek Partners
Sunoco, Inc.
HMSHost
Torch Relay
IHOP Restaurants
Walmart Stores, Inc.
Lids Foundation
Wawa
Long John Silver’s Look for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ signature yellow balloon to learn how you can join these companies and organizations in supporting All Children’s Hospital. Your support of All Children’s mission throughout the year will make a big difference in the lives of kids across Florida and beyond who count on All Children’s Hospital for the most advanced pediatric care.
north pinellas oldsmar | clearwater | dunedin palm harbor | safety harbor East Lake | tarpon springs
Local robotic Group Cleans up at Competition Congratulations to the Clearwater Library robotic team, the BiblioBots! The group earned the People’s Choice award for their exhibition submission of JobBot, the Neat Freak Robot, at the recent Robofest competition that took place Saturday, March 14 in Oldsmar. Deriving their invention from a Lego EV3 Mindstorm kit, the Bibliobots group programmed their robot to pick up toys around the house. The team had been meeting at the Clearwater Main Library for weeks researching, designing and building JobBot. To see the robot in action, see the group’s demonstration video at www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAky0Wf9bYA. This summer the Clearwater Main Library will offer its two-week robotic camp for grades 4-8 which runs Monday through Friday from June 8 through June 19. The camp meets daily from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. and will explore robotics and other STEM topics through a variety of fun activities. For more information, contact Mercedes Bleattler at 727-562-4970.
recycle unwanted Electronics, North pinellas Families and businesses are encouraged to recycle any outdated or unused electronics left over from the holidays as well empty paint cans to one of Pinellas County’s mobile collection drop-off sites. The county’s monthly Electronics and Chemical Mobile Collection program is free for Pinellas County residents and available to area business owners for a reduced fee. This month, electronic devices and chemicals can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 16 at a mobile North County Satellite collection site set up at Pinellas County Government Center located at 29582 U.S. Hwy. 19 N in Clearwater. Items that may be recycled or disposed of include unwanted household waste such as paint, chemicals, fluorescent light bulbs and electronics like TVs and computers. For an updated mobile collection schedule, go to www.pinellascounty.org/utilities.
Taste Fest ready to Tantalize pinellas Restaurant Week kicks off Friday, May 8 with a Taste Fest along Clearwater Beach’s scenic Beach Walk, located at South Gulfview Boulevard between the Hyatt Regency Resort and Crabby’s Bar and Grill. Clearwater Beach Taste Fest, to be held 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., offers attendees tastings from an eclectic mix of participating restaurants, a wine garden, premium craft beers, live music, raffles and an exciting fireworks display at dusk. Taste Fest precedes the 6th Annual Restaurant Week, which takes place May 11-22 and features dozens of the area’s top restaurants, giving foodies the opportunity to experience everything from casual cuisine to fine dining. During Annual Restaurant Week, each participating restaurant will offer a tasty prix fixe menu ranging from $15 to $35, with some restaurants also offering lunch menus from $10 to $15. Restaurants will compete for “Best in Class” across a variety of categories as attendees get to vote on their experience at each restaurant. For more information about this year’s Taste Fest or Clearwater Beach Restaurant Week, visit www.clearwaterbeachrestaurantweek.com.
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• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
dates: May 2, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Blake Real Estate’s Paddle for Kids Bring the family to Waterfront Park in Safety Harbor to learn how to paddleboard, canoe and kayak, and take part in races and family activities. Cost is $30 to race and free to attend. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com
May 6, 6:30-8 p.m. Sight and Sound Discovery Night at Espiritu Santo Catholic School Experience the choir, band and drama programs as part of this informative event at Espiritu Santo Catholic School in Safety Harbor. Learn about the school’s open classrooms and art gallery. www.escschool.org
May 9, 7 a.m. - noon Running for ALL Children Start a team, join an existing one or show your support for participants in this second annual fundraiser benefiting All Children’s Hospital at Safety Harbor Marina. Morning includes 5K, 10K, 1-Mile and Kid’s Dash events. www.runforallchildren.com.
May 9, 8 a.m. - noon Kids’ Fishing Rodeo Sign up kids ages 5-12 for a fun morning of fishing hosted by the Clearwater YMCA at Pier 60. Only 250 spots are available. Cost is $10 per angler in advance and $15 on day of event. Register at 727-461-9622.
May 9, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Splash Bash and Picnic Bring the whole family for a springtime celebration at Highlander Pool in Dunedin. Take part in games and races held throughout the day and enjoy music and lunch. Free to attend. Bring your towel and bathing suit. 727-2983266
May 15, 6-10 p.m. 3rd Friday Music Series Shop, dine and dance as part of this monthly music series in downtown Safety Harbor. Browse arts and crafts, visit local food vendors and listen to music. Proceeds benefit Mattie Williams Neighborhood Family Center. Free entry. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com
May 23, 10 a.m. - noon Teddy Bear Tea Enjoy crafts, storytime, light snacks and a guest speaker from Build-a-Bear at Dunedin Community Center. Register by May 20. Cost is $8. 727-812-4530.
pasco dade city | land o' lakes | new port richey trinity | wesley chapel | zephyrhills
Photo by Nicole Geller Photgraphy
pepin Academies Celebrates Its Students Pepin Academies will host their Community Gala Thursday, May 21, featuring over 400 guests, a variety of entertainment and an auction of student artwork. The event, which kicks off at 6:30 p.m. at Pepin’s Hospitality Centre at 4121 N. 50th St. in Tampa, includes a cocktail hour, song and dance performance by students, a formal dinner catered by Puff N’ Stuff, dessert courtesy of Mike’s Pies, a silent auction and jewelry raffle courtesy of Gold and Diamond Source. Gayle Sierens, WFLA news anchor, serves as this year’s Master of Ceremonies and will introduce the event’s guest speaker, former NFL coach, motivational speaker and philanthropist Tony Dungy. Others in attendance will include Mayor Bob Buckhorn, former Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio, Police Chief Jane Castor, Hillsborough Public Defender Julianne M. Holt, Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco, Tampa Sheriff David Gee, and numerous city, state and county political leaders. The Gala is a tribute to the many generous businesses, government leaders and philanthropic supporters of the schools and a showcase for the skills and talents of Pepin Academy students at the school’s Tampa, Riverview and New Port Richey campuses. Pepin Academies are tuition-free, public charters schools serving students with specific learning and learning related disabilities between grades 3 and 12, with a transitional job training program for students ages 18 to 22 years. Tickets to attend this year’s event are $300. For more information, visit www.pepinacademies.com.
Young pasco philanthropist Is recognized Amanda Moore of Gulf Middle School in New Port Richey recently earned the Youth in Philanthropy Award as part of local National Philanthropy Day festivities. Pasco County School Superintendent Kurt Browning, school Principal Jason Joens and Amanda’s favorite teacher for Civics, Evangelos Saurokos, were in attendance at a recent event celebrating the honor. The 12-year-old was also joined by mom Amy Johnston and grandparents Buck and Georgeanne Johnston. Amanda was nominated by Pasco Kids First for her year-long fundraising efforts by selling candy bars at an area bowling alley in order to give kids a “Christmas to Remember.” In 2013, she sponsored one family and the joy she experienced gave her the drive to do more in 2014. Amanda’s passion and efforts were contagious and several people offered to help sell the candy bars, ultimately raising more than $2,500. As a result of her successful fundraising, Amanda was able to individually sponsor three families by shopping to fulfill their wish list, wrapping the gifts and playing Santa’s little by delivering the presents with a real-life Santa. When they delivered Christmas trees, they included fire extinguishers for families who didn’t have them. Amanda also served as a primary sponsor in the Healthy Families Brunch with Santa in Hudson where nearly 100 kids received a pancake breakfast, gift and picture with Santa.
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“Amanda’s speech had the entire room in awe and tears with her heartfelt desire to make a difference as it was presented with such confidence and poise,” says Becky Bennett, President of Nature Coast AFP who was also in attendance for the presentation of the award to the student.
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dates: May 1-2, 7-10 p.m. Gulf Middle School Presents “Grease” Catch this Broadway classic delivered by a cast of young talents from Gulf Middle School at the Pasco Schools Center for the Arts at River Ridge in New Port Richey. For ticketing and other information, call 727-7748000.
May 6, 13, 20 and 27, 10-11 a.m. Kids Club Take the kids to center court for a variety of activities every Wednesday at the Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. This month, meet up with My Gym (May 6); Color Wheelz (May 13), Mr. Tommy (May 20) and Lowry Park Zoo (May 27). Free. www.theshopsatwiregrass. com
May 7, 6 - 8 p.m. Indulge, Fashion + Fun for Moms Treat yourself to a night out and celebrate motherhood with this fun, fashionable shopping experience at Gulf View Square Mall. Moms and their friends can experience a fashion show, gift bags, giveaways, a DJ, and in-store discounts. Free. www.simon.com/mall/ gulf-view-square
May 9, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Pasco Kids First 2nd Annual Kickball Tournament Sign up for this tournament open to both adults and children at Schwettman Education Center and Gulf High School. Teams of 10 to 12 players (with a minimum of four females) compete in a guaranteed minimum of two games. Fee is $120 per team. Proceeds benefit Pasco Kids First. www.pascokidsfirst.org
May 16-17, various times Bowl for Kid’s Sake Hit the lanes for this popular Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay fundraiser at one of two bowling events in Pasco County this month: noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 16 at Lane Glo South in New Port Richey; and 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday May 17 at Pin Chasers East Pasco in Zephyrhills. Join a team, create your own or sponsor a registered bowler. www.bbbstampabay.org.
May 22-24, various times Seussical Support the arts by coming out for performances of this celebration of the work of Dr. Seuss as part of the Arts in Motion Community Theatre Youth Theatre Arts program at Pasco Middle School in Dade City. Tickets are $15 adults, $12 seniors and $7 students grades K-12. www.artsinmotionpasco.com
YOU TRIED TO FORGET ME BUT YOU COULDN’T, COULD YOU? Arriving 5/7/15
©2015 Panera Bread. All rights reserved.
•10AM•
EVERY WEDNESDAY
AT THE SHOPS AT WIREGRASS
Wiregrass Ranchers Kids Club
presented by:
• live children’s entertainment • face painting • balloon artists • activities •
Bruce B. Downs & S.R. 56 - Wesley Chapel (813) 994-2242 | theshopsatwiregrass.com /shopsatwiregrass
/shopwiregrass
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polk auburndale | bartow | haines city lakeland | lake wales | winter haven
Florida Crafts Fair brought to Lakeland What began as a crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library has grown into a one of Florida’s premier outdoor art festivals. The Polk Museum of Art hosts its annual MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire-by-the-Lake on May 9 and10 along the shores of scenic Lake Morton in downtown Lakeland. This year’s event, which runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, is one of the longest-running art festivals in Central Florida and has been hailed by Sunshine Artist magazine as one of the “Best 200 Art Shows.” Mayfaire-by-the-Lake 2015 will offer guests an eclectic mix of art to browse. About 165 artists will show work spanning a variety of media—everything from jewelry and painting to clay and textiles. Patrons can take advantage of free parking at Florida Southern College on the corner of Johnson and McDonald. A free shuttle runs between the parking lot and the festival throughout the two-day event. There will also be “MayFerrys” available on Lake Morton. Onsite food and beverage vendors will cook up a diverse menu including Greek food, Asian cuisine and gourmet hamburgers. Local musicians and dance companies will perform onstage near the front lawn of Lakeland Public Library all weekend long to entertain guests. Families will want to stop by the Polk Museum of Art parking lot to visit one of the weekend’s most popular features, a Hands-on Art Tent for Children and Kids Zone. Here, younger guests can enjoy several free art activities for kids of all abilities, as well as bounce houses and a rock climbing wall. (There is a small fee to play on the bounce houses and rock wall.) On Saturday, May 9, the event springs into Mayfaire Saturday Night and its Festival of Arts & Athletes. This free event runs 5:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and features a party along the shores of Lake Mirror, two blocks north of Lake Morton. Attendees can take part in an evening race, the Mayfaire 5K, and stay for fireworks later that night. Families are encouraged to pack blankets or lawn chairs and even a picnic, though onsite food vendors will be available. To learn more about MayFaire-by-the-Lake 2015, visit www.polkmuseumofart.org.
Take a Stroll for National public Gardens Day National Public Gardens Day is Friday, May 8, and Bok Tower Gardens, along with more than 535 other national public gardens, is extending a special invitation. Go to the National Public Gardens Day website at www.nationalpublicgardensday.org and print out a free admission coupon that will allow you a complimentary visit to Bok Tower Gardens in honor of the occasion. National Public Gardens Day is a national day of celebration presented by the non-profit American Public Gardens Association (APGA) to raise awareness of America’s public gardens and their important role in promoting environmental stewardship and awareness, plant and water conservation, and education in communities nationwide. National Public Gardens, which takes place annually on the Friday before Mother’s Day, celebrates all public gardens, botanical gardens, educational gardens, specialty gardens, entertainment gardens, arboreta, farm gardens, historical landscapes and zoos.
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Bok Tower Gardens membership holders will have access to all other participating U.S. gardens. For additional information, go to www.boktowergardens.org.
dates: May 2, 7:30-10:30 a.m. Carillon Classic 5K Run Sign up to take part in this race through the picturesque 5K course through Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Both adults and students in grades 1-12 are invited to participate as individuals or for team competitions. www.boktowergardens.org
May 2-3, various times Mid-Florida Bike MS Join the Citrus Tour 2015 hosted by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Mid-Florida Chapter, an annual two-day 150-mile bike tour beginning in Polk City at Fantasy of Flight with an overnight stop at Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando. A Finish Line Celebration will follow. Must be 12 to ride and raise a minimum $250. 407-478-8882
May 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Women of Central Florida Fashion Show Come out to enjoy fashion, food and fun at Polk Theatre in downtown Lakeland. Join leaders in the community including Sheriff Grady Judd for this fundraiser to benefit Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center. For ticket information, call 863-6863189.
May 8, 12:30 p.m. Annual Youth Leadership and Scholarship Golf Tournament Take to the greens for a special fundraiser golf event at the Southern Dunes Golf & Country Club in Haines City. Teams play in a 4-person scramble format to help raise funds for the Haines City Chamber of Commerce’s youth leadership and scholarship programs. Registration is 12:30 p.m. and shotgun start at 2 p.m. 863-422-3751
May 15-17, various times Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. Travel to the enchanted world of the beloved Disney classic onstage at Theatre Winter Haven. Sing along to songs from the Oscar-winning film. www.theatrewinterhaven.com
May 29-30, 4-11 p.m. Play It Forward Polk Attend this 2-day music festival at The Historic Polk Theatre in Lakeland. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit dedicated to raising funds to provide musical instruments to children in Polk County schools unable to afford them. www.playitforwardpolk.com
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TAMPA BAY PARENTING
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to see more photos visit facebook.com/tampabayparentingmagazine
Around Town
To see more photos, visit: TBParenting.com/facebook
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Canterbury School of Florida parents Tara Fleming, Gabriela Cunningham, PreK teacher Jan Herzik, and parents Mandy Carlson, Faith Clark, Becky Oakes, and Ann Goldenberg at their annual spring gala.
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Tampa Preparatory School Gala Chair Alta Schlemmer with parent volunteers Donna Hatton and Sung Hochhausler.
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Jim Ferman, Tom Stork, Noelle Muniz, and Michael Muniz at the Florida Aquarium 20th Anniversary Celebration.
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Grace Maseda, Capt. Al Thompson and Cindy Stuart at the Education is Key Breakfast.
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Joyce Cotton, Education is Key Breakfast Student of the Year, Luke Hershey and Barbara Hancock.
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Sean Farrell and Jennifer Kennymore from the Mary Help of Christians Summer Camp Program at Summer Splash 2015 Summer Camp Fair.
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St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Child Advocates Jaime Verberne and Julie Johnson with public health and medical school volunteers from USF at Summer Splash 2015 Summer Camp Fair.
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Circle F Dude Ranch Summer Camp Director Ben Moss and Assistant Camp Director Kris Canchon at Summer Splash 2015 Summer Camp Fair.
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Seal Swim School’s Camp Seal Mascot and Melanie Stairs at Summer Splash 2015 sharing the importance of swim safety.
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The team from Verizon brought with them all of the newest and best technology to Summer Splash, including a mock Mars terrain where kids could play with robots!
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may Events fundraiser for the whole family (even Fido!) at Al Lopez Park. Morning features family-friendly fun, breakfast, lunch, entertainment and kids’ activities. Register at www.walktocurearthritis.tampa.kintera. org. Everyone
Tampa Bay Fertility Conference May 2, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Hear from a variety of accomplished speakers, including leaders in the field of infertility, at this yearly event hosted by The Reproductive Medicine Group at the Hilton Tampa Westshore Hotel. Get valuable information and network to learn more about options available at this free seminar. www. tampafertilityconference.com Moms & Dads
Children's Gala at MoSI
e v e n t s & f e s t i va l s Tampa's Lowry park Zoo Zoominations
May 2, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. All young philanthropists who received one of 10,000 free piggy banks to take part in the MOSI and PNC Bank Give Change to Make Change campaign are invited to attend this fun event at MOSI. Gala admission for additional parents or siblings without a piggy bank is $10 each. www.mosi.org Everyone
Through May 31 Lose yourself in the wonder of custom-made Chinese lantern structures on display throughout Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa during this nightly illuminating event. Watch performances by Chinese acrobats and shop an artisan market with unique handmade crafts. For tickets, go to www.lowryparkzoo.com. Everyone
safe baby express with cpr
open house at admiral farragut
Moms & Dads
All month Stop by anytime during regular school hours and request a tour. Meet staff and check out all of the unique programs serving grades preK-12. www.farragut.org Everyone
The Wizard of oz at Glazer Children's Museum
Through September, various times Get an up-close look at the Glazer Museum’s popular traveling exhibit that celebrates the film and literary classic. Travel the yellow brick road through Munchkinland, check out the ruby red slippers, and find your courage, heart and smarts via an interactive adventure through the Land of Oz. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone
A Galaxy Far, Far Away Weekend May 1-4, various times Travel back to a galaxy far, far, away when Glazer Children’s Museum is transformed into a galactic empire. Bring your stormtroopers, Princess Leias, and little wookies for a weekend of interstellar fun. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone
relay for life
May 1, 6 p.m. Join Shorecrest Preparatory School to raise money for the American Cancer Society. You can make a team and walk, or attend the ceremony and luminaria dedication. www.relay.acsevents.org/ Everyone
Arthritis Walk
TAMPA BAY PARENTING
Member Mornings at the Glazer May 3, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Museum members are invited to enjoy special members-only access to the Glazer Children’s Museum. Invite an additional family member to join (up to five guests will be admitted at no charge; must include an adult). Guest family can purchase a membership for 20% off regular membership that day only. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone
Diggin' the Arts
May 3, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Support the Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation at this fourth annual event at the Largo attraction. Activities include a quick draw painting competition open to amateur and professional artists; an art sale of items painted at the gardens; presentations and activities by 10 local museums and art institutions; an instrument “petting zoo;” scavenger hunt; and more. Donation of $2 requested. www.flbgfoundation.org
Everyone
Walk to End Lupus Now
May 3, 5:30 p.m. Register for this community event at Lowry Park Zoo to raise money for lupus research and education programs with a minimum donation goal of $100 for participants. Funds raised support the Lupus Foundation of America. Register at www.walktoendlupus.org. Everyone
Charity Golf Classic
May 2, 8:30 a.m. - noon Take part in this annual Arthritis Foundation
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May 2 & 4, various times This one-stop safety class at St. Joseph’s Hospital covers all of the following: Infant & Child CPR (non-certifying), car seat safety, SIDS, home safety, childproofing, shaken baby syndrome, coping skills and more. It also includes an inspection of one car seat per couple. Cost: $75. www.baycareevents.org
May 4, 10:30 a.m. Hit the links to support Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. The annual golf tournament at Carrollwood Country Club
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
features a shotgun start, contests, live auction, raffle drawings and awards dinner and banquet to follow. For more info, call 813-935-8552, ext. 275. www.lowryparkzoo.com Moms & Dads
Give Day Tampa Bay
May 5, all day Do your part to give back to Tampa Bay area nonprofits registered for this 24-hour online giving challenge led by the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay and the Florida Next Foundation. Donate online to your favorite organizations, including such area attractions as MOSI, Glazer Children’s Museum, Tampa Theatre, The Florida Aquarium and Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, among others. www.givedaytampabay.org Everyone
Children's Board Free Tuesdays at the Glazer May 5, 2-7 p.m. Enjoy a free admission promotion offered during designated hours at Glazer Children’s Museum. See the museum’s current exhibits and interact with featured guest characters. Adults must be accompanied by a child and vice versa. www. glazermuseum.org Everyone
national bike and walk to school day
May 6, 7 a.m. This is a national event on the first Wednesday of May each year to promote bicycle/pedestrian safety to encourage parents and students to have an out of the car experience, get active, reduce the carline and enjoy company as you travel to school on a bike or walk with others. Everyone
prohibition Gala: A Celebration to Ban Brain Tumors
May 9, 6:30-11 p.m. Experience the setting of a Chicago speakeasy at this Brain Tumor Alliance (formerly Miles for Hope) fundraiser at the historic Casa Coe da Sol in St. Petersburg. Attendees will indulge in 1920s American cuisine at a supper club under the stars, complete with live auction, performance artists and champagne room. Tickets are $200. Funds raised will be donated to All Children’s Hospital. www.btagala.com Moms
& Dads
The purple Gala
May 9, 7 p.m. Enjoy an elegant evening of food, fun and music in support of the programs and services of The Spring at this annual black tie optional fundraiser at the Tampa Airport Marriott. Guests can enjoy a gourmet seated dinner, live music and dancing, and silent and live auctions. Tickets are $175. www.thespring.org
Moms & Dads
A Night at the Brewseum
May 9, 7-10 p.m. Attend a unique and playful event that offers parents the chance to feel like kids again at Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Pete. Guests can enjoy tastings of local craft beers, drawings, live music and other entertainment. Cost is $35 per person. All proceeds benefit the museum’s programs for underserved families in our area. www.greatex.org Moms & Dads
While great care was taken in compiling the calendar, it’s always best to phone ahead to confirm information.
Craftology
May 9, 8 p.m. Stop by the Glazer Children’s Museum for a parentsonly night of craft beer, craft cocktails, tasty hors d’oeuvres and dancing. Tickets are $60 general admission and $95 VIP. Proceeds help support free or reduced-price admissions to underserved members of the community. www.craftologytampa.com Moms
& Dads
MoSI Homeschool Technology & Engineering Days – rocket Scientists May 14, 2-4 p.m. Sign up your homeschooled students for hands-on activities at MOSI in Tampa. Kids will learn how to design, build and launch a solid chemical rocket and how to land a rocket safely. Pre-registration and payment required in advance. Fee is $20 per program general admission and $15 per program for MOSI members. www.mosi.org Everyone
Disney on Ice presents Frozen!
May 14-17, various times Enter a winter wonderland and sing and dance along to inspiring songs from the award-winning Disney film in this live on-ice production at Amalie Arena. Join Elsa, Anna, Olaf and more for a fun celebration of love and friendship. Tickets are $20-$100. www.amaliearena.com Everyone
Johnny Ferlita Memorial Fishing Tournament for pediatric Cancer Foundation
May 15-16, various times Sign up for this one-day, catch-and-release tournament at the Tampa Yacht and Country Club. Event includes captain’s meeting, dinner party and silent auction. Fishing kicks off at 7 a.m. Saturday with participants returning to Westshore Bay Club by 3 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Pediatric Cancer Foundation. www.fastercure.org Moms & Dads
mommy & me cook off and block party
Explore the world of fairy tales with special daily programs celebrating these classic stories and their characters at Glazer Children’s Museum. Young guests are encouraged to come dressed as one of their favorite characters when they visit. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone
Summer Safety Kickoff
May 22-28, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Kick off the summer with a special week of activities focused on being smart in the sun at Great Explorations in St. Petersburg. Kids will get to enjoy science activities, storytelling and crafts such as creating UV bracelets, sun visors and sun-safe paper dolls. All activities are included in museum admission. www.greatex.org Everyone
Memorial Day at Florida Aquarium
May 25, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. All active duty, veteran, retired or drilling reservists or National Guardsmen are entitled to two free admission tickets to the Florida Aquarium for themselves and a guest. Additional family members (up to four people) can receive $10 admission. Guest must present military ID. www.flaquarium.org
May 30, 10 a.m. – 3 pm. Get valuable information and tips about the upcoming hurricane season and ensure your family is prepared when you participate in this MOSI event in partnership with the City of Tampa and Hillsborough County. Admission to expo is free. For $8, expo guests can stroll through the museum’s exhibit galleries and watch one standard IMAX film (children under 2 are free). www.mosi.org Everyone
May 25, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Members of the military (active-duty, retirees and veterans) and up to three direct dependents are invited to visit the Zoo for free on Memorial Day, with military member showing valid military photo ID. www.lowryparkzoo.com Veterans, Active/Retired
Military
Memorial Day at Great Explorations
May 25, 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. The museum honors all members of the military (active and retired) with military ID by offering free admission. Day will include patriotic crafts and activities. www.greatex.org Veterans, Active/Retired
Military
Secret Spy Academy
The Illusionists - Witness the Impossible
May 17-30, various times
Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo
Memorial Day Military Appreciation
MosI preschool programs: Wonderful Water
Fairy Tales
May 28, 10 a.m. – noon Kids can have fun with math in this innovative hands-on approach at Tampa’s MOSI. Each month, the museum offers a variety of activities to improve math skills and critical thinking. Pre-registration and payment in advance required. Fee is $20 per program general admission and $15 per program for MOSI members. www.mosi.org 7 & Older
Veterans, Active/Retired Military
May 16, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Join All Children’s Hospital, Kohl’s Cooks for Kids, the Lealman Fire District, and Great Explorations Children’s Museum at the Mom & Me Cook-Off and Block Party. Sample the delicious and nutritious recipes. Families can also enjoy great activities throughout the day including crafts, free food, fire truck demos, bounce house, and interactive animal experience. www.fit4allkids.org.Everyone
May 16, 6-8:30 p.m. Find out if you have what it takes to be a secret agent at this fun program at the Glazer Children’s Museum in Tampa. Volunteers from MacDill Air Force Base partner with the museum to lead a series of spy trainings. Graduate as an official Secret Spy Agent and unwind afterward with a light buffet and music. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone
MoSI Make It Count: Hands-on Math programs
May 26, 2-3:30 p.m. Little ones can learn about the water cycle and make a splash in this exciting class at MOSI which experiments with objects to see what floats. Parents must accompany child in the workshop. Fee is $15 per program general admission and $10 per program for MOSI members. www.mosi.org 2-5
May 26-31, various times Be mesmerized by this best-selling magic show direct from Broadway when it comes to Straz Center in Tampa. Witness the talents of acclaimed illusionists Aaron Crow, Dan Sperry, Jeff Hobson, Kevin James, Andrew Basso, Adam Trent and Yu Ho-Jin. Bring the kids Wednesday, May 27 for Broadway Family Night when kids 12 and under get half-priced tickets with purchase of full-price adult ticket. www.strazcenter.org 5 & Older
spECIAL NEEDS
Sponsored by Early Autism Project www.EAPTampa.com
Free Homeschool Social Skills Group May 4, 11 and 18, 11 a.m. - noon Sign up students in grades 2-5 for a free, interactive weekly social skills group with Hammond Psychology. Register online or call 813-567-3253. www.hammondpsychology.com 7-10
CArD Early Childhood Training Webinar Series: preparing for Summer
May 5, 6-7:30 p.m. Learn about Extended School Year, various summer programs and techniques for making summer activities occur smoothly. To participate online, go to http://usf.adobeconnect.com/card_ect/ at 5:45 p.m. April 7. To attend in person, RSVP to adohme@usf.edu one week before event. Moms & Dads
Family Support Group
May 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Discuss challenges with other parents of special needs children and offer each other advice at this monthly parent-to-parent support event at the All Children’s Hospital Child Development and Rehabilitation Center in St. Petersburg. RSVP at 727767-2885. Moms & Dads
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may Events
Great Connections
May 10, 10 a.m.-noon Visit Great Explorations Children’s Museum when it is closed to the general public and features modified lights and sound, as well as a cool down room for families. Cost is $5 per person. www.greatex.org 6
& Older
Art and Sign Language
May 15, 10-11 a.m. Be introduced to American Sign Language by a certified ASL instructor and interpreter and tour the galleries of the Museum of Fine Art in St. Pete. Cost: $5 per family. www.fine-arts.org Everyone
Sunshine Sunday
May 31, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Explore Glazer Children’s Museum with lights and sounds lowered and special programming for those with special needs to explore the museum exclusively. Advance registration suggested. Free for members and $5 nonmembers. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone
of Impressionist and Modernist art, including pieces by Monet, Renoir, Matisse and Picasso, on display through the end of the month. www.fine-arts.org
Everyone
experience. Tickets are $12 adults and $10 for kids 12 and younger and includes bag of interactive props. Running time, 102 minutes. Rated PG. www.tampatheatre.org 5 & Older
Make and Take at MFA
pitch perfect 2
May 2 and 16, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Create your own masterpiece inspired by works of art in the collection and special exhibitions at the Museum of Fine Art. This month, make a print using a variety of paper and woodblock plates. Free with museum admission; no registration required. www.fine-arts.org 5 & Older
Older
Breakfast with Dali for Families
Tomorrowland
May 23, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Take the family to The Dali Museum in St. Pete for an interactive docent-led tour followed by a Spanishthemed breakfast buffet and hands-on activities. Cost is $24 per adult, $17 per child ages 12-17 and $10 ages 6-12 (children 5 and under, free). Museum members receive a discount. Pre-purchase required. www. thedali.org 6 & Older
Opens May 15 Continue following the a cappella group the Barden Bellas on their latest singing competition adventures. The musical-comedy stars Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Hailee Steinfeld and Brittany Snow. Rated PG-13. See local movie listings for showtimes. 12 &
Opens May 22 Meet a scientifically inquisitive teen and an inventor as they team up for a mission to discover buried secrets of time and space. This sci-fi adventure stars George Clooney, Hugh Laurie and Britt Robertson. Rated PG. Contact local theaters for movie times. 8
& Older
t h e at e r & d a n c e American Stage in the park: In the Heights
film
Art
Sunscreen Film Festival
African American Life and Family
Through May 3, various times View a special collection of photographs depicting black Americans during the late 1880s on display as part of this exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg. www.fine-arts.org Everyone
American Chronicles: The Art of Norman Rockwell
Through May 31 See work by one of the most popular American artists of the past century in this celebration of Rockwell’s visual legacy at Tampa Museum of Art. www.tampamuseum.org Everyone
Monet to Matisse on the French Coast
Through May 31 Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg by viewing this collection
62
TAMPA BAY PARENTING
April 30-May 3, various times Be part of this 10th annual film event that brings an eclectic mix of films across genres and subject matter to downtown St. Petersburg. For full schedule of screenings and information about events and parties, go to www.sunscreenfilmfestival.com. Moms, Dads
Avengers: Age of ultron
Opens May 1 Catch the much-anticipated sequel to The Avengers when it hits theaters this month. Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Hemsworth, Scarlett Johansson and Jeremy Renner reprise their Marvel roles. Running time, 150 minutes. Check local theaters for showtimes. 12 & Older
Family Favorites Classic Movie Series: Sing-Along fRoZEN
May 2-3, 3 p.m. Wrap up this popular Sunday afternoon film series at historic Tampa Theatre with a recent family classic offering a unique musical element to the moviegoing
• MAY 2015 • TBParenting.com
Through May 17 Experience this groundbreaking 21st century musical about chasing dreams and finding our true home when it is performed as this year’s American Stage in the Park production in downtown St. Pete. For tickets and showtimes, visit www.americanstage.org. Moms
& Dads
Annapurna
April 30 – May 24 Catch this emotionally-charged play from emerging talent Sharr White brought to the stage by Jobsite Theater at the Tampa’s Straz Center. Shows run 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $28. www.jobsitetheater.org Moms & Dads
Next Generation Ballet's Coppelia
May 1-2, various times See ballet’s greatest comedy spring to life when Next Generation Ballet performs in Ferguson Hall at Straz Center. Shows are 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday with a 2 p.m. matinee. www.strazcenter.org Everyone
Ain't Misbehavin' Music by Fats Waller
May 1-17, various times Relive the days of The Cotton Club as a joyous tribute to the music of an early jazz great is celebrated at
Stageworks Theatre in downtown Tampa. Hear such sassy classics as “Honeysuckle Rose” and “Mean to Me.” For showtimes and ticket information, go to www.stageworkstheatre.org 8 & Older
Disney's Beauty and the Beast
May 5-10, various times Watch a beautiful love story unfold as this beloved Broadway musical returns by popular demand to the Straz Center. Take advantage of a special Broadway Family Night discount. Wednesday, May 6, kids 12 and under get 50 percent off their ticket with the purchase of a full-price adult ticket. Evening includes pre-show family activities and a talk-back with the cast. www.strazcenter.org 5 & Older
"Breakin' Backwards" and "Breakin' Back to Summer"
May 8-9, various times See one of two special Soul Street Dance Company events at Largo Cultural Center. Friday at 7:30 p.m., the four dynamic young men perform to a soundtrack with music ranging from the ‘20s through the ‘80s in “Breakin’ Backwards.” Saturday at 11 a.m., the dance company delivers “Breakin’ Back to Summer.” Tickets are $7.50 adults and $6.50 children with a family 4-pack available for $22. www.largoarts.com
Everyone
Dinosaur Train Live! Buddy's Big Adventure May 16, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Take a trip on the Dinosaur Train in this live, interactive show based on the PBS series featuring Buddy, Tiny, King, Don and more at Straz Center in Tampa. Tickets: $25-$35. www.strazcenter.org 4 &
Older
this annual Hispanic festival for the whole family at Sea World Orlando. Event is free with park admission. www.seaworld.com/orlando Everyone
in their life with gifts such as crowns, necklaces and bouquets. All activities are included with admission. www.greatex.org Everyone
Kevin Hart What Now? Tour
Saturday in the Park with Mom orlando
May 8, 7 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Laugh out loud as the actor and comedian takes his comedy on the road for a North American tour and stops at Amalie Arena in Tampa for two shows. Tickets for earlier show start at $46.25; for 10:30 p.m. show, tickets start at $56.25. www.amaliearena.com
Moms & Dads
Bette Midler
May 11, 8 p.m. Catch The Divine Miss M as she brings her national tour to Amalie Arena. With every ticket purchased online, fans are entitled to a copy of Midler’s latest CD “It’s the Girls!” Tickets start at $42. www.amaliearena.com Teen & Older
May 14, 6:30 p.m. Top off the workday by meeting up with good friends in the plaza outside St. Pete’s Mahaffey Theater and taking in a concert. This month, Save the Radio performs. www.themahaffey.com Everyone
Laurie Berkner
May 9, 1-3 p.m. Kids can take mom to tea while seeing the latest art on display at Dunedin Fine Art Center. www.dfac.org
Everyone
Mother's Day at the Florida Aquarium
May 9-10, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Enjoy free admission for mom with a full paid general admission to the Florida Aquarium in downtown Tampa. www.flaquarium.org Everyone
May 17, 3 p.m. Take the kids to a fun, interactive concert by this award-winning children’s musician at Capitol Theatre in downtown Clearwater. A longtime fixture on TV’s Nick Jr. and Sprout networks, Berkner will sing well-loved original songs including “We Are the Dinosaurs” and “Rocketship Run.” Tickets are $30, $40 and $100 and include a Meet & Greet opportunity. Purchase tickets through www.rutheckerdhall.com 4
Mother's Day at Tampa's Lowry park Zoo
pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo
Tampa Bay History Center Celebrates Moms
May 19, 7:30 p.m. Revisit your ‘80s days as the powerhouse rock vocalist visits Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg with her guitarist-producer-songwriting partner and husband. Sing along with a hearty songbook, from “Heartbreaker” and “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” to “Love Is a Battlefield” and “We Live for Love.” Tickets are $45-$85. www.themahaffey.com Girls Night Out,
Date Night
May 9-10, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Bring mom to Lowry Park Zoo over Mother’s Day weekend and get free admission with the purchase of a son or daughter’s full-priced admission ticket (paid ticket can be child or adult admission). Paid ticket must be purchased on May 9 or 10 only. www.lowryparkzoo.com Everyone
May 10, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Spend Mother’s Day at the Center with free admission for moms with a paid admission on her special day. Kids can do arts and crafts in the Lykes Atrium, and guests can take advantage of a 15 percent discount in the Museum Store on select items. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org Everyone
Mother's Day Celebration with Elmo and Friends
music & comedy
May 10, 12:30 p.m. Make memories over lunch by sharing mom’s special day with Elmo and his buddies in the Sesame Street Safari at Busch Gardens Tampa. Indulge in a delicious buffet and take home a memento with a free 6x8 family photo. Park admission is required but not included. Lunch is $22 plus tax for adults and $15 plus tax for kids ages 3-9. Book your reservation at www.buschgardenstampa.com. Everyone
Friday Extra Concert Series
May 1, 8, 15 and 22, 7-9 p.m. Gather friends for a free outdoor concert in this long running music series across various Bay area venues. This month, Lowry Park Bandshell in Tampa serves as the backdrop for a mix of jazz, classic rock, country, R&B and Latin performers. Concessions are available for purchase. For more information, go to www.tampagov.net. Everyone
May 2, 9 and 16, various times Enjoy sights, sounds, food and fun of Latin culture at
Mother's Day Tea
Second Thursday on the plaza
& Older
viva La Musica at SeaWorld orlando
May 9, 11:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Come out for this annual Sun Coast Family Health Fest celebrating moms and promoting healthy families at Largo Central Park. This community event includes live music, kids’ activities, entertainment and educational demonstrations and exhibits. Admission is free and food and beverages are available. For more info, call 727-483-0661. Everyone
Marvelous Mothers
May 9, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Celebrate Mother’s Day early with free Saturday admission at Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Petersburg. Kids can indulge the special women
Mother's Day at the Glazer Museum
May 10, 1-6 p.m. Take mom to Glazer Children’s Museum and she will enjoy free admission at the downtown Tampa attraction. www.glazermuseum.org Everyone
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Live Coverage Starts at 11 a.m. on May 5 on WEDU+
WEDU+ is a digital TV channel broadcast by WEDU PBS. You can watch WEDU+ on channel 3.4 with an antenna, or on Bright House 605, Comcast Xfinity 203, Verizon FiOS 476, and WOW! 137. WEDU+ is not available on satellite. Watch online at www.givedaytampabay.org Your donation to WEDU PBS and 543 other nonprofit organizations matters more on May 5, 2015. The WEDU PBS Berkman Family Broadcast Center will serve as the headquarters and media hub for the 24-hour event, broadcasting results live on air and online. Join nonprofits on May 5 at the Give Day Tampa Bay HQ (1300 North Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33607) for live updates, interviews, and studio tours. Make your donation to WEDU PBS in person at one of the Give Day Tampa Bay kiosks or visit www.givedaytampabay.org #GiveDayTampaBay
Each week, WEDU combines nearly 100 hours of award-winning, standards-driven, quality programming with educational resources and outreach dedicated to enriching the lives of children, families and educators in our community. Support our educational outreach by making a donation on May 5 to WEDU PBS.
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